The presence of traces of asbestos has been identified during property maintenance work at the Scotmid Co-operative store in Moredun.

While subsequent, independent air tests confirmed these were at a satisfactory level, the store will close with immediate effect whilst a full environmental clean of the store takes place.

Maurissa Fergusson, Head of Scotmid’s Property & Facilities, said: “We have not taken this decision lightly and we are sorry for the inconvenience this causes, not least because the store also acts as a Post Office. However, we will not compromise on the health and safety of staff and customers, which is always our first priority.

“There is a Post Office less than a mile away in Gilmerton as well as several others in neighbouring communities. As an additional option, we will be offering customers a complimentary bus service to our nearest Post Office store in Portobello in order to ensure those less able to get to Gilmerton can continue to do so.”

Maintenance work is expected to be completed by mid-January and the local community will be updated on Scotmid’s progress.

If you are a customer with a query, please contact Customer Service on 0131 335 4410.

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John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.