Black smoke was seen rising from the fire at old Fitzherbert Tavern and across the Palmerston North sky. Photo / Greg Olsen
Black smoke was seen rising from the fire at old Fitzherbert Tavern and across the Palmerston North sky. Photo / Greg Olsen
A fire at an abandoned tavern in Palmerston North has forced the closure of a nearby school due to concerns that asbestos particles could spread on to the school grounds.
Several Fire and Emergency crews rushed to the fire at the old Fitzherbert Tavern on Ferguson St around 5.15pm yesterday.
Palmerston North Intermediate Normal School principal Hamish Ruawai said the school would be closed today as a precaution.
“The fire involves asbestos-containing materials, and there is concern about asbestos particles and ash debris being carried by the wind on to the school grounds.
“As a precautionary measure, the school will be closed tomorrow [Friday] to ensure the health and safety of all staff and students.”
Ruawai said specialist testing may be required to determine whether any asbestos debris or ash has settled on the school site before it can safely reopen.
“There is potential risk that air conditioning systems, water supply, and outdoor areas could be affected by airborne contaminants.”
Yesterday, there were eight fire trucks, a command unit and a support unit on the scene.
“The fire is producing a large amount of smoke so please avoid the area,” a Fire and Emergency spokesperson said.
“If you live nearby, close your windows and doors and stay inside if possible to avoid the smoke.”
An emergency alert has been issued for Palmerston North residents advising them to stay inside following a fire in the centre city.
“Police are in attendance, with cordons in place around the area,” a spokesperson said.
“Motorists and pedestrians are asked to avoid the area if possible and expect delays.”
An emergency alert was issued for city residents asking them to stay inside and close all windows and doors, and consider turning off air conditioning and heat pumps.
Photos and videos from the scene show a large plume of black smoke spewing from the abandoned pub.
The pub, once popular with students, closed down in 2008.
