The discovery sparked fears that demolitions had commenced while the building was still riddled with the substance and harmful dust clouds may have descended upon Magdalen Street.

But now Norwich City Council said testing has proven there is no asbestos on the site.

Footage shows pipes labelled as asbestos (Image: sbsPlace01/Reddit)

A spokeswoman for the authority said: “We want to correct any misinformation and false speculation that has been circulating in recent days by setting out the facts.

"We can confirm that test samples from the pipe lagging proves there is no asbestos present.

The pipes are labelled with stickers warning of asbestos (Image: sbsPlace01/Reddit)

“This followed two separate and thorough inspections, and removal of asbestos where identified, before demolition work began – which were confirmed and put on record.

The dust forced businesses to close (Image: Submitted)

"This week’s additional asbestos checks have been conducted in response to rumours about asbestos labelling."

A video, which appears to have been recently recorded by a nameless urban explorer from inside the site's former cinema, shows pipes labelled with the words "asbestos insulation do not disturb".

The footage was posted on the social media platform Reddit where it has been viewed by hundreds of people, including concerned members of the community.

The council also condemned those who may have entered the building.

“Any unlawful break-ins are not only dangerous to the individuals involved – they also risk impacting the progress of the project and costing more money.

A thick fog was covering the street (Image: Submitted)

“We urge anyone with an interest in the redevelopment of Anglia Square to support us in our ambitious work to bring significant improvements and opportunities to one of the most deprived areas of our city. 

“A report confirming the latest findings has been submitted to the Health and Safety Executive”.

The authority confirmed demolition work will continue on the site.

© Norwich Evening News