The Walka Water Works in the Newcastle region has been closed to the public after assessors uncovered asbestos at the site. The site has been in the media in recent weeks after the local mayor outlined plans to restore the building and maintain its heritage listing.
Maitland mayor Philip Penfold explained that the government-owned building had fallen into disrepair and the council was exploring its options for future use, which will surely be delayed by the presence of ACM at the site.
He explained that recent work completed included “condition assessments of the site funded by the state’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.
“The qualified assessors found the presence of asbestos, most likely associated with the site’s historical use as a power station.
“While asbestos has only been identified in some areas, the health risks of asbestos exposure are well documented.
“So, the entire site is closed to the public until further notice as a precaution.” This includes nearby playgrounds, running tracks and community leisure facilities.
A spokesperson for the council explained that they have “notified the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), Crown Lands and SafeWork NSW.”
“We’ll liaise with them to quantify risks and determine appropriate management measures.”