Work is underway at the Maungatapu underpass site to remove asbestos from a contaminated piece of land.

The contaminated area between the scout hall and the stream has been screened off and specialists are working on site today.

Work is being carried out on the Maungatapu underpass site to remove asbestos from the ground. Photo: Andrew Campbell.

The NZ Transport Agency's acting Bay of Plenty highway manager, Adam Francis says the work is expected to take between seven and 10 days and will stop if wind reaches unsuitable levels.

Adam says around 10 trucks a day will leave loaded with asbestos contaminated soil for Tirohia, a certified contaminated material dump site near Thames.

All precautions are being taken and the operation is low risk in regards to public safety, says Adam.

'The site, weather conditions, air quality and dust levels will be closely monitored throughout the removal process by WorkSafe, BOP Regional Council and independent consultants, with the contaminated area, approximately 500m2, kept continually dampened.

'Personnel working on site will be wearing protective clothing and the trucks will be fully lined to securely contain the loads.”

These aerial shots show how the work is progressing so far. Photos: Bruce Barnard.