“A potential disaster for Sydney’s arts and cultural sector”: Biennale imperilled by asbestos discovery

by GRACE JOHNSON

A new discovery of friable asbestos in Rozelle Parklands has shown that the contractors responsible for cleaning up contaminated areas are not on track to complete remediation, raising concerns that the Biennale won’t be able to go ahead.

Since the discovery of asbestos in the park, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) ordered John Holland and CPB to remediate Rozelle Parklands and surrounding areas by February 28.

Friable asbestos, more dangerous than bonded as it is easily crushed and become airborne, was found in a location that was meant to have already been cleaned up and remediated.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said the pending failure of the contractors to adhere to the EPA’s orders for remediation is “unacceptable”.

“Clearly John Holland and CPB are not on track to meet next week’s statutory deadline for the complete remediation of Rozelle Parklands and Victoria Road,” said the mayor.

“This is outrageous and a direct consequence of these contractors not taking responsibility and properly resourcing the urgent clean-up of this toxic mess.

Following the cancellation of Mardi Gras Fair Day in Victoria Park, concerns are now being raised about whether Biennale, held at the White Bay Power Station, will be able to continue.

With Lilyfield Light Rail Station being one of only two public transport connections to White Bay Power Station, and Rozelle Parklands being closed to the public, the Power Station is not accessible from the light rail stop.

“Last week, we saw the cancellation of Mardi Gras Fair Day. Now the Biennale, which is expected to attract 800,000 patrons, is imperilled as well,” warned the mayor.

“This is a potential disaster for Sydney’s arts and cultural sector.”