Council building shut as legionella bacteria found

A council headquarters in Worcestershire has closed after legionella bacteria was found in parts of the water system.

Staff at the County Hall offices in Worcester had been instructed to work from home on Friday as a "precautionary measure," Worcestershire County Council said.

Legionella is a type of bacteria which causes Legionnaires' disease, a potentially serious lung infection.

Paul Robinson, council chief executive, said the impact on services was "minimal" and that weddings and ceremonies would continue as planned.

A sign at the main entrance advised staff the building was closed on Friday

"County Hall offices which includes the Lakeview Cafe are closed today after sampling has returned a detection of legionella in parts of the water system," hMr Robinson said in a statement.

"Weddings and ceremonies will continue as planned as control measures have been put into place and all non-urgent appointments will be re-arranged."

Residents who were planning to visit the site on Spetchley Road have been advised to check the council's website for the latest information.