Shire gives update on Fischer Street works

THE Surf Coast Shire has sent out an explanation to residents and property owners near a long-running section of roadworks on Fischer Street in Torquay, saying the discovery of two separate sources of asbestos is responsible.

The roadworks to resurface a section of Fischer Street between Darian Road and Highlander Street started in March 9 but have been delayed “due to the location of some ageing services, and requirements to get permission from two service authorities to work over their assets”, according to the letter from project manager Lisa Robinson.

These assets are an old Barwon Water asbestos main installed at a shallower deprth than the existing standards, and a Telstra line running through an asbestos conduit.

Barwon Water says there can be no vibration or compaction over the main, and has now approved a construction solution that will allow works to proceed.

However, Telstra will need two days to close the street to traffic to remove all the asbestos and replace two of its pits “but is yet to provide a date”.

“Until the Telstra works have been completed, works cannot be undertaken in this section of Fischer Street.

“Residents can rest assured removal of the asbestos conduit will be completed under strictest safety conditions, and the water main will not be exposed during works.”