Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) has been forced to delay ongoing demolition while licensed contractors remove the deadly contaminant from the site.

It is not yet known if construction workers will be required to undergo testing for exposure.

However, MLHD Chief Executive Jill Ludford claimed the carcinogenic substance was only identified beneath the ground.

“Asbestos was recently identified under the ground and this is being removed by licenced contractors under the supervision of an environmental hygienist and disposed of in accordance with NSW Environment Protection Authority requirements,” she said.

“Safework inspect the site regularly to validate that all aspects of the safety management plans are being adhered to and offer advice when requested.

“Proactive control measures are in place within the construction zone, including air monitoring to ensure readings remain under detectable limits at all times.” 

It comes after state opposition figures accused the government of trying to cover up delays in Wagga Rural Referral Hospital’s $170 million renovation. 

Upper house MP Daniel Mookhey questioned how it took four years to discover the substance.

“It’s shocking when you find asbestos at any constriction site, let alone after four years of work,” he said. 

“In 2013, we had the local member say the redevelopment would be finished in 2016 – now here we are with asbestos.

“It’s unfair on taxpayers and the people of Wagga.”

Wagga MP Daryl Maguire took exception to the accusations, urging the contamination had been taken care of. 

“The piping was wrapped in asbestos in the ground, so it wasn’t a threat to people and has been well managed,” he said.

“Protocols are in place to get on with the job.

“We’ve already dealt with it and are on track to deliver the best public health project this region has seen.”