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The former Aneurin Labour Club in Penyrheol has suffered a fire in one of its ancillary buildings – causing a nearby primary school to close for the day.

Demolition of the 1960s-era building, which was latterly known as the Aneurin Sports Bar, began last month without the correct permission in place and council officials halted the work

Fire crews were called at 2.45am on Friday September 22 to the main building’s adjoining derelict flat.

A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said multiple crews and appliances were in attendance.

They said: “We thank local residents and commuters for their patience with road closures while we tackled the fire. Crews will attend the site later on today for re-inspection.”

A spokesperson for Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “We are aware that there are ongoing concerns within the community about the demolition works at the site and the potential impact on the surrounding area.

“These concerns are mostly a matter for the Health and Safety Executive and we understand they are aware and are investigating.

“Caerphilly County Borough Council will continue to support the relevant agencies involved in any investigation and potential enforcement action arising from this activity. We will continue to keep the local community informed and updated.”

As of this afternoon, the flat has been demolished.

Concern over asbestos

The demolition work, which began in August, was met with strong opposition from local councillors and residents concerned that asbestos could be present.

The owner of the building, Clayton Jones, submitted a prior notice of demolition to Caerphilly County Borough Council on August 8 citing safety concerns of the building and to clear the site for a potential housing development.

Demolition work started soon afterwards, but council officers halted it and recently determined that a full planning application was needed because of asbestos concerns and the need for a bat roosting survey.

Throughout this time, the building has been fenced-off, but the security measures disappeared yesterday before the fire. Since then they have been re-erected.

Environmental body Natural Resources Wales was also contacted in May this year regarding waste material being stored at the site.

Jak Rose, Waste and Industry Regulation officer for Natural Resources Wales said: “Upon visiting the site, officers found small piles of waste on the land surrounding the building with some waste having been burned on site.

“The landowner was issued with an advice and guidance letter, advising them of the correct procedures to store and manage waste, in order to prevent any potential impact to the local environment.”

Mr Jones has been contacted by Caerphilly Observer.