The city council’s environmental crime team are investigating after corrugated asbestos material was left illegally in large sheets and smashed up and sealed in plastic bags.

Assistant City Mayor Councillor Sarah Russell said: “The dumping of asbestos material in public places like this is highly irresponsible and a matter we treat very seriously.

“There are strict guidelines about the way asbestos material is disposed of and the implications of not following these guidelines can lead to a prosecution.”

Paul Rudkin, enforcement officer at Leicester City Council added: “We are appealing to any members of the public who may have had an asbestos structure removed recently, or who have any information whatsoever that may assist with our investigation.

Anyone with information can call Leicester City Council on 0116 252 7001 and leave a message for environmental crime team.