By Bonny Burrows
Resident safety concerns surrounding a construction site outside Nar Nar Goon Primary School have been raised as a “matter of urgency” with the contractor.
Cardinia Shire Council has confirmed concerns have been raised about the worksite at Spencer Street, where construction of a new school crossing, upgraded footpaths and a widened road are underway.
“Some residents have contacted council expressing concern about the construction site … All issues have been raised with the contractor to address as a matter of urgency,” Cardinia Shire Council acting manager of infrastructure services Cathal O’Loughlin said.
Council did not specify the issues raised by residents, but one parent, who asked to remain anonymous, told the Gazette the construction site was “absolutely appalling”.
Exposed metal spokes were creating a tripping hazard for pedestrians, he said, and he had personally witnessed two falls, including his own child, and “too many misses”.
A lack of temporary fencing and cleaning up at the end of the day further led to his worries.
“A girl I went to school with became a paraplegic (due to a similar incident), so it’s something I’ve very concerned about,” the parent said.
Worried a similar injury may occur, the parent has since covered the exposed spokes with yellow caps, which he purchased himself.
But it shouldn’t be up to the general public to implement safety measures, he said.
“Every contractor has a duty of care, and it’s not being met,” the resident said.
“There are things there that aren’t acceptable on a construction site, and something’s got to change very quickly.”
Mr O’Loughlin said council officers regularly carried out inspections on all projects that were undertaken by council or on behalf of council.
“This includes inspecting a contractor’s safety documentation as part of the tender review, and conducting an initial pre-commencement meeting on site where the site safety documentation is discussed, along with any safety matter that may be specific to a site,” Mr O’Loughlin said.
The acting manager said the major project would “greatly enhance” Spencer Street and improve pedestrian safety in the long run.
“(But) unfortunately, due to the amount of works required, the project was not able to be fully completed during the school holiday break,” Mr O’Loughlin said.
“The contractor has endeavoured to work outside school drop-off and pick-up hours.”
He said all concrete and asphalting works were to be completed by 13 May, weather permitting, and thanked residents for their understanding during the works.
Residents with any concerns regarding council works can contact the customer service team on 1300 787 624.
