More than $433k in fines dished out to building firms in Parramatta River blitz.
Hundreds of construction companies have been fined in an environment blitz on sediment and erosion control on the Parramatta River.
More than $433,000 in fines were dished out to building firms in areas including the Burwood, Canada Bay and Inner West council areas during a month-long compliance crackdown by the Environment Protection Authority and the Planning Department.
Offences ranged from collapsed fencing, ripped and torn sediment bags, and inadequate containment of sediment stockpiles leaking into local waterways.
Alarmingly, almost half of sites inspected were found to be non-compliant, the EPA said, with some developers repeat offenders after being pulled up by inspectors in October last year.
Fines included penalties for water pollution at several building sites – ranging from home renovations to major road constructions.
The blitz – conducted throughout May – covered catchment zones in 11 local government areas.
The EPA said the noncompliance rates indicate that “more work is needed to educate developers on best practice… and the important role this plays in restoring Parramatta River to a clean and safe swimming area.” The blitz formed part of the Parramatta River Catchment Group’s Get the Site Right campaign.
Regulatory action also included verbal directions and warnings.
The EPA encourages residents to report pollution incidents to the Environment Line on 131 555.