Soil samples on Vandenbergh, Yeola, Fountaindale and Lees Roads all clear
Core soil samples taken from the four roads on the outskirts of Robertson found to contain an unknown amount of asbestos have all returned clear for the material.
In total 29 core samples over 6.5 kilometres of road were taken and analysed on Yeola, Vandenbergh, Fountaindale and Lees Roads.
All results were found to contain zero traces of the material.
The tests were undertaken by independent asbestos consultants, Sydney Environmental & Soil Laboratory (SESL).
Council’s Deputy General Manager of Operations, Phil Marshall said the tests were the latest step in determining the appropriate course of action in remediating the roads.
“Whilst the results are encouraging, Council is still committed to resolving the matter as soon as possible,” he said.
“The consultant’s report concludes that there does not appear to be any fibres within the compacted road sub-surface.
“However, this does not account for the fragments visible in a number of isolated locations on the road surfaces,” Mr Marshall said.
The results follow findings undertaken by independent asbestos monitoring and management consultant Safe Work & Environments which gave the air surrounding the roads the all clear.
“We’re now awaiting further advice from specialist consultants in regards to future management and maintenance of the affected roads.
“Their suggestion will take into account the findings of both set of tests so far and current and retrospective risk assessments,” Mr Marshall added.
Whilst only Lees Road is a through road, the affected roads remain closed to all but local traffic.
In the interim, Council’s own internal investigations are narrowing in on possible locations where the material, which was laid in 2008, may have been laid on a handful of other unsealed remote roads.
“Once we can confirm and accurately identify these locations, we will again alert the proper authorities and ensure the same course of repair is undertaken on any remaining roads.”
Residents living on the identified roads wanting further information are encouraged to contact Council on mobile 0429 997 193 during business hours.