BBC Scotland reported last week that work had been suspended at the Kincorth Academy site due to concerns surrounding the potentially-deadly substance.

Aberdeen City Council has now confirmed that asbestos was discovered in the roof of the building following an investigation into the incident.

The council was told in November last year to improve procedures after there was no emergency response for five days following the discovery of asbestos at Bridge of Don Academy last July.

A spokesman said: “Works in connection with removing asbestos cement roof sheeting have ceased whilst investigations are still ongoing.”

Contractor George Beattie and Son, which was appointed to the project in April, has torn down much of the site with demolition expected to be completed by October. The site has been earmarked for housing once the remains of the school have been cleared.

Kincorth Academy, which opened in 1971, closed last July with pupils now being sent to the £47 million Lochside Academy.

The demolition was previously delayed after baby gulls were found nesting on its roof.