By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE company developing a Berwick housing estate has assured nearby residents they are working to make the area safe, after asbestos was found at the site.
The assurance from Moremac Property Group follows concerns from local residents after the contractor found fragments of asbestos sheeting at the Alira estate on Centre Road, which is still under construction.
The EPA, WorkSafe and an industrial hygienist have since been contacted to monitor the area.
Local resident Matt George, whose house runs adjacent to the development, raised concern after claiming a tarp used to cover the asbestos had recently blown into his backyard during heavy winds, which he said was then touched by his young son.
“I understand it might be minimal but I don’t want this stuff blowing around,” Mr George said.
“I’m not anti-development, I just want it attended to.”
Mr George also said warning signs and hazard tape hadn’t been made prominent enough at the site.
Moremac Property Group Director Bryce Moore said the removal of the sheeting had only recently been approved and would start next week.
He said the asbestos sheeting was illegally dumped “many years ago” and had been present on-site ever since.
“Approval to remove the waste has only recently been received following discussions with the EPA and WorkSafe and we expect to begin removal next week,” Mr Moore said.
“We understand the concern of the neighbours and accordingly have ensured that the material is safely contained.
“Although the waste has been illegally dumped, our actions, with ongoing guidance from the EPA and WorkSafe will see the site cleaned up utilising practices that are safe for neighbours and workers alike.
“Upon safe removal, the project will receive a certified clean clearance from an EPA accredited environmental auditor.”
A spokeswoman for Worksafe confirmed the organisation would “monitor the removal”.
“A licensed asbestos removalist has been engaged by the site manager to remove the material, overseen by an independent hygienist,” the spokeswoman said.
“WorkSafe will monitor the removal to ensure it is undertaken in accordance with occupational health and safety laws.”
City of Casey Manager Community Safety Caroline Bell said council was aware of the current investigation being carried out at the site.
