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March Update
The work at Subiaco Creek Reserve is now complete.
While planting will be undertaken in July, the walking track is now open for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Why is a section of the Ponds Walking Track in Subiaco Creek Reserve closed?
Investigations undertaken at Subiaco Creek Reserve revealed that a section of the embankment is impacted by asbestos containing material. Most of the material is within the embankment and covered by vegetation. Air-monitoring undertaken during the investigations showed there is no risk to the public. NSW Health advises that asbestos presents a risk when fibres become airborne and can be inhaled. While there was no detection of airborne fibres during soil testing and no immediate risk to public health, Council is taking precautionary action to ensure the walking track is safe now and into the future.
Works
NSW Health advises that asbestos presents a risk to human health if fibres become airborne and can be inhaled. While buried asbestos is generally at a very low risk of becoming exposed, it is important that Council identify sites where asbestos materials may be present and act should contamination be found.
Remediation work will be undertaken by a licensed asbestos contractor and will be overseen by an independent licensed asbestos assessor.
Air-monitoring undertaken during investigations showed there is no immediate risk to public health. However, to ensure the site remains safe for long-term community use, City of Parramatta has engaged a licensed asbestos contractor to install.
As part of the remediation program, a protective ‘capping layer’ of geocells will be installed, and crushed sandstone and native plantings will be featured on the embankment.
Work Hours
The walking track will be closed to the public from Monday 23 October 2023 to Friday 20 December 2023 with pedestrian detours in place to create a safe work zone. (Please do not enter the closed area during this time).
Work is expected to take around three months to complete, subject to weather and site conditions.
Work hours: Monday to Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm and Saturday 8.00am-1.00pm (if required).
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Council’s Project Officer, Contaminated Lands in the Natural Resource Team on 1300 617 058 or email naturalresources@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au
