Jennifer Pittorino
Asbestos has been found at six sites in Hobsons Bay, while several sites in the area are still being actively assessed as of Monday, according to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
Eight sites have had potential asbestos-containing material collected for testing, with results expected Tuesday, April 16, for seven sites, and one later in the week.
The six confirmed sites are: Altona Coastal Park; PA Burns Reserve, Altona; GJ Hosken Reserve, Altona North; Crofts Reserve, Altona North; PJ Lynch Reserve, Altona North; and Donald McLean Reserve, Spotswood.
All six sites are under restricted access with the erection of signage and fencing while council implements its remediation plan.
The eight sites which are awaiting test results are: Truganina Park in Altona Meadows, Doug Grant Reserve in Altona, Laverton Creek at the rear of AB Shaw Reserve in Altona Meadows, Newport Lakes Reserve in Newport, Grieve Parade in Altona, Cherry Lake Buffer Mound and Wetland in Altona, Kororoit Creek Reserve in Altona North and Federation Trail in Brooklyn.
EPA has now inspected 21 parks and reserves where mulch has been laid in the last 18 months.
Investigations have cleared three producers of mulch used by Hobsons Bay council.
“While investigations continue, it appears that the two most likely sources of asbestos contamination are deposits after mulch is laid or it was already on the site and mulch laid over it, including new mulch that has been deposited on top of older mulch still present at the site,” the EPA said last week.
Hobsons Bay council has said the community should be reassured the parks are safe.
“Contaminated materials have only been found in recycled mulch which is used within some garden beds,” the council said.
“Any playground closure has been precautionary to safeguard the community. Playgrounds use a different type of mulch which has not been found to be contaminated.”
To report potential asbestos call EPA on 1300 372 842.
-With AAP
