Fears over asbestos exposure at Dundas Park and Doyle Ground North Parramatta
A MOTHER fears the community was exposed to asbestos at popular parks because Parramatta Council used them as dumping grounds.
A MOTHER fears the community was exposed to asbestos at popular parks because James Hardie used them as dumping grounds.
Kellie Darley said Parramatta Council did not give the public sufficient warning over possible asbestos exposure at Dundas Park and North Parramatta’s Doyle Ground, which the council is reassessing as part of its James Hardie “legacy sites”.
Ms Darley raised the issue with Parramatta Council after she saw an excavator and two workers in white jumpsuits on Monday, November 5.
The workers told her they were carrying out investigations for the council.
But later that week the mother of two sons found out the workers were investigating asbestos levels in the soil.
Ms Darley said signs were eventually erected around the park but she feared it would be too late for the public who regularly used the reserve.
“I also understand that residents local to (Dundas Park) have received a letter in the mail,’’ Ms Darley said.
“However, as these two popular parks (including Doyle Ground) are used by families across the area, I believe this is highly inadequate.
“I am particularly concerned about how long council and the State Government have known about these parks (and possibly others) being possible asbestos dumping ground.”
The EPA said Dundas Park contained asbestos but it did not present a significant risk unless it was disturbed.
A Parramatta Council spokeswoman said signs were installed at Dundas Park’s entrances on November 1, before works started.
“Council takes its responsibilities in relation to asbestos very seriously and is committed to keeping the community informed in relation to any emerging issues that may arise,’’ the spokeswoman said.
She said specialist air quality testing showed Dundas Park had no airborne asbestos.
The council is also reassessing Dan Mahoney Reserve at North Parramatta and is awaiting test results.
Initial investigations have started at Hambledon Cottage but will be subject to heritage guidelines and advice.
Jury delivers verdict in floodwater double manslaughter trial
A Sydney man has been found not guilty of manslaughter following the deaths of two friends, who were washed into regional floodwaters after standing on the back of a ute.
‘Game-changing’: Revamps coming to a western Sydney pub near you
Hotels, bowling alleys, rooftop bars, cocktail lounges and reimagined menus. A hospitality group is splashing more than $50m to upgrade its venues across Sydney. Here’s what’s in store.