TO quell community rumours, Southern Grampians Shire Council (SGSC) has advised that MACA Civil confirmed that the fill used does not contain asbestos and the material used for the ‘foundation’ of the road was sourced from Rigby Quarry, Hamilton. 

However, SGSC director infrastructure and sustainability, Marg Scanlon said potential asbestos was encountered during excavation of the footpath two weeks ago.

“This was tested and removed by a licenced contractor and a clearance certificate was provided to Council which found that there is no visible asbestos residue remaining as a result of the asbestos removal work in the area,” she said.

Meanwhile, the end date for stage one works on the upgrade of Cox Street has now been extended to April 10.

SGSC advised that the road and services upgrade on Cox Street between French Street and Gray Street are progressing, however, contractor MACA Civil said there had been challenges to secure sub-contractors, hence the delay.

SGSC advised that kerb works on the closed section of Sedgewick Street will result in temporary local traffic access impacts on March 26 and 27. Traffic management will be on site and there will be no impacts to access for private properties.

Pedestrian access to businesses continues, with vehicle parking available on French Street and Gray Street.

Council encouraged the community to continue to support local businesses - Permewans Mitre 10 is accessible via French Street, the United service station is still open and accessible, as are Cutting Edge Mower and Moto, Wash Trough Laundrette, Palace Martial Arts and Cox Street Vets.

SGSC again expressed appreciation to the community for their patience.