What was found at the Belfast bonfire site after remediation?

Fragments of asbestos were found to still be present at the Belfast site on Meridi Street after remediation work was completed.

Why is the public warned to stay off the Meridi Street site?

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has warned the public to stay off the privately owned land on Meridi Street for public health reasons due to the presence of asbestos fragments.

Is the investigation into the Belfast site concluded?

No, an environmental crime investigation at the site off the Donegall Road is continuing, and the NIEA is unable to comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings.

Home / Environment / Asbestos Shocker: Belfast Bonfire Site Still Contaminated

Asbestos Shocker: Belfast Bonfire Site Still Contaminated

13 Feb

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Summary

Asbestos fragments detected at Belfast's Meridi Street bonfire site post-remediation.
Environmental agency warns public to avoid the site for health reasons.
An environmental crime investigation into the site is ongoing.

Asbestos Shocker: Belfast Bonfire Site Still Contaminated

Fragments of asbestos have been found to still be present at a Belfast site that hosted a loyalist bonfire last summer, following the completion of remediation work. The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has issued a critical warning to the public, advising against accessing the privately owned land on Meridi Street for public health reasons.

The agency confirmed that an environmental crime investigation at the site off the Donegall Road is ongoing. Remediation efforts by the landowner, focused on safely removing asbestos, commenced on August 4, 2025, after initial delays to secure the area. This process was described as highly specialized, complex, and time-consuming.