Dumped asbestos removed
Wingecarribee Shire Council today confirmed that asbestos reported dumped at a number of locations throughout the Shire had been removed and disposed of.
Council’s General Manager, Jason Gordon reported that initially Council had planned to engage a contractor from Wollongong to do the works, but in the end a Moss Vale based contractor was able to be sourced.
The contractor – Australiawide House Demolition Specialists – has removed the dumped asbestos from five locations throughout the Shire.
“Our contractor today confirmed all reported incidents had been cleared and properly disposed of,” he said.
“Sadly, whilst the contractor was clearing the debris, even more illegally dumped material was reported.
“In total close to nine cubic metres was removed,” Mr Gordon said.
The sites cleared included two on Wombeyan Caves Road, a further two on Greenhills Road Berrima and one at the corner of the Old Hume Highway and Wombeyan Caves Road, Welby.
Initial investigations suggest the material originated from the same location.
“During the clearing it has been suggested that further dumping may have occurred. Staff are now investigating these claims and will take appropriate action as required,” he said.
“This is a very serious offence and I remind everyone of their responsibilities when disposing of potentially dangerous building materials,” Mr Gordon said.
Penalties for illegal dumping include on-the-spot fines of up to $5000, five million dollars for corporations and one million dollars plus seven years imprisonment for individuals.
For more information on the correct disposal of contaminated building waste contact Council’s Resource Recovery Centre on 4868 0500.
Any person with information in relation to the incidents is encouraged to phone the Pollution Hotline on 131 555 or contact Council’s RID Squad on 4868 0893.