Work on Bennett Park at St Marys has been halted after an asbestos scare.
During excavation works to build a children’s bike path at the park, Penrith City Council’s contractors have uncovered fibrous material on part of the site.
Penrith Mayor Mark Davies said work was immediately halted and the area secured.
“Until the material is identified, Council has taken a range of precautionary measures including the complete fencing of the site and covering all areas excavated for the track,” Councillor Davies said.
“Council has called in the experts and a detailed site assessment is being completed.
“The assessment will both identify the material and, if it is asbestos, will guide Council in the best management of the site until all works are completed and there is no risk to the community.
“The site will be remediated to legislated standards so that it is completely safe.”
The project when completed will deliver about 250 metres of 2m wide children’s bike path, complete with line marking.
This bike track builds on the range of play facilities already available within the park.
The park will be closed for about four weeks to complete construction.
