A park in Warwick, south-west of Brisbane, has been confirmed as containing asbestos, following a council investigation last week.
Southern Downs Regional Council has confirmed that bonded asbestos material was found at the popular park, according to the results of laboratory analysis.
A spokeswoman for the council explained that it was suspected that the material had been at the site for some time, given the park was previously a landfill site.
“We are confident all material present on the ground has been removed and there is very minimal risk to the public,” the spokeswoman said.
“However, given the popularity of the park with residents and visitors, the council is taking a cautious approach and removing the topsoil from the area immediately around where it was found.
“A qualified asbestos contractor will remove the soil and dispose of it, and the site will be remediated by capping and covering with mulch and tree plantings.”
When a local resident alerted the council, the affected area of Australiana Park was cordoned off, and the area remains closed to the public as remediation works continue.