THE Ogilvie Road Park in Mt Pleasant has been re-opened to the public, four months after it was closed and fenced off due to asbestos fears.
In March 2012, The City of Melville purchased the old Water Corporation site at 72 Ogilvie Road, described as a win for the community.
But in August, the City closed the park and installed fencing after the Health Department discovered asbestos particles at the park.
The City soon began detailed site investigations to determine the source of asbestos, which involved removing remnants on the surface and testing soil for asbestos.
The park was cleared of asbestos on December 27, with the signs and fence pulled down.
“Remedial work on the low risk asbestos has been completed, and this site has received clearance as being safe for access and use by the general public,” Melville acting chief executive Marten Tieleman said.
Mt Pleasant resident Rhonda Kerr said the opening of the park was a New Year present for the community, which was looking forward to park improvements.
“A bore has been sunk and council workers have done some tidying, and there had previously been weed spraying but I could not say the park is back to its earlier level of usage as yet,” she said.
“The all-clear of asbestos is a great relief, particularly for parents and grandparents whose children used the park.
“My understanding is that council was told there was not a major problem but it was important that the area be carefully examined to ensure it was safe for use as a park.”
Since the council first announced its intention to negotiate with Water Corp for the park, there has been considerable anticipation by residents about how the park will look and that will grow as works take place over the next few months.
The City said it was now focused on plans to revitalise and redevelop the site, which is due for completion in June.
“Works to develop the park will include landscaped, grassed and mulched areas, trees, footpaths, irrigated turf, seats, and a drinking fountain,” Mr Tieleman said.