DAREBIN: Safety assurances given on public areas
Rachel Ollivier (pictured), Darebin Council’s General Manager Infrastructure Operations and Finance, has gone on the record to assure the public that open areas in the municipality are safe for public use.
This follows a question from local resident Sophie Peters said accessibility of public spaces like barebcue and picnic areas and the open green spaces had been a “major draw”.
“Over the past three years, these areas have
been fenced off due to reported asbestos and lead contamination. Residents have been warned to avoid even walking on the grass, yet the playground remains open, and water flows from the contaminated zone into Darebin Creek.”
Ms Peters said: “This raises concerns about public safety and the environment, while also deterring potential homebuyers due to the prominent signage.
“We understand contamination issues can be complex, but the prolonged inaccessibility of
these spaces has significantly impacted the community.”
Ms Ollivier said: “The State Government’s Department of Transport and Planning own most of the closed off area and we are working with them towards remediating it and reopening it. This will take some more time.
“An investigation report is currently being peer reviewed by an environmental auditor to be submitted to the EPA for final review in early 2025. This will enable us to confirm next steps
on site”