Crystal Palace Park's National Sports Centre has been closed after asbestos was discovered there.

According to the London Development Agency (LDA), which manage the centre, the potentially cancer causing material was discovered during a planned asbestos investigation ahead of refurbishment due in November.

The investigation discovered asbestos in a number of areas and the centre has been closed for further studies as a precaution.

Air samples taken to date in the centre have shown no dangerous levels of asbestos.

Dr David Hancock, LDA director of risk said: "We are closing the centre as a precautionary measure as we do not want to expose the public or anybody to unnecessary risk."

The planned refurbishment of the centre's mechanical and electrical systems will still go ahead in November and the centre should be fully open to the public in June 2008.