By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
GEELONG’S council has asked the Environment Protection Agency to inspect a North Geelong site proposed for a chemical storage facility.
The request for the Roseneath St inspection follows resident fears that a building removed last week was contaminated with asbestos.
Ward councillor Eddy Kontelj said he understood that the removal of the building was due to safety issues.
“The building was damaged as a result of the recent severe wind conditions and council was made aware of this about a week ago,” Cr Kontelj said.
“Our building department issued an emergency order on 3 October to remove the building to avoid hazards.
“The issue of whether it contained asbestos is something the owner/contractor is to determine and responsible for and to then follow the correct Worksafe regulations.
“Whether or not there was asbestos in the materials that were removed from site, we are not aware. Having said that, given the concerns of residents, we have emailed the EPA requesting that they visit the site to inspect.”
Resident Joan Clarke said the building contained fibro-cement sheet construction materials.
“We feel there was asbestos in roof of that shed,” Ms Clarke said.
“Most of the area has asbestos everywhere. If you move it there is dust.
“They had no protective clothing or masks and the dust was flying all over houses in Roseneath St. It’s dangerous for people because of the wind blowing it around.
“Who’s going to sort this mess out and be honest to us? Someone needs to tell us the truth and take responsibility.”
The Independent revealed last week a long-running planning permit saga over the chemical storage facility had been called in for a councillor panel hearing scheduled for 19 November.
