Get the Site Right returns for week-long blitz
Fines of up to $30,000 could be issued at construction sites across Lake Macquarie this week as part of environmental compliance blitz ‘Get the Site Right’.
This year’s campaign focuses on pollution prevention through securing materials, such as roof sheeting or insulation padding, on building sites to protect waterways.
From Monday 14 October to Friday 18 October, Council's Environmental Compliance Officers are monitoring building sites to ensure they adhere to development consents by implementing and maintaining adequate environmental protection measures.
Council has already issued a $30,000 on the spot fine for water pollution this month – the maximum for companies – in a timely reminder for builders and developers to ensure the proper precautions are in place.
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Environment, Regulation and Compliance, Derek Poulton said builders and home renovators also had an important role to play.
“When sediments and other building materials are washed down stormwater drains and into our waterways it not only degrades water quality, but can destroy aquatic habitats,” he said.
“Get the Site Right is an important part of our ongoing strategy to manage the environmental impacts of construction.
“We want to help improve the health of the lake for the entire community and the benefit of the environment.”
Failing to put these protections in place can attract on-the-spot fines for individuals of $15,000 for the first offence and $22,500 for a second offence.
Companies face $30,000 for the first offence and $45,000 for a second offence if water pollution occurs under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997.
Members of the public are encouraged to report pollution incidents, including poor sediment control, to their local council or the EPA’s 24/7 Environment Line on 131 555.
Now in its eighth year, Get the Site Right is a joint taskforce between the Cooks River Alliance, Georges Riverkeeper, NSW Dept of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI), NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), Parramatta River Catchment Group, Sydney Coastal Councils Group, WaterNSW, and councils across the state.
