No risk from fire damaged house in Gilbert Street, Torquay

THE wreckage of the Gilbert Street home that was burnt in an arson attack on Christmas day remains standing a month after the incident.

Residents in the surrounding area have come forward posing their concern to the threat of Asbestos due to the age of the house.

Surf Coast Shire general manager planning and environment Ransce Salan wants to assure residents the site is secure and doesn’t pose an immediate safety risk.

“Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor attended the site of a house fire in Gilbert Street Torquay on Christmas Day at the request of emergency services,” Mr Salan said.

“Council subsequently issued a building order requiring the owner to secure the site. Fencing has since been installed to prevent public access to the property.

“The Department of health and human services advises that a house fire involving asbestos-containing materials does not result in a health risk due to asbestos fibres in the surrounding area.

“The site is secure and doesn’t pose an immediate safety risk.”