Media Centre
28/04/08Time required for full subsidence investigation
Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson today said monitoring has revealed subsidence was continuing at Collingwood Park.
"From readings taken today, it is clear that subsidence in the investigation area of Duncan, McInnerney, McLaughlin and Maloney Streets has continued," Mr Wilson said.
"Surveys have shown shifts of up to 12 centimetres overnight at the intersection of Duncan and McInnerney Street, and 7 centimetres down the centre of Duncan Street.
"As a precaution, the response team will widen the current survey area."
The Minister said because of ongoing ground movement it may take some weeks before the full extent of the Collingwood Park subsidence was known.
"We are urging residents near to the streets under investigation to contact our freecall number if they have concerns about their property, and the department will follow up with them.
"Many of the longer term questions about the size of the subsidence area, how many homes are affected, and what actions the State Government and Ipswich City Council may take, will take time to establish.
"We owe it to the residents to make a considered, not hasty, response once we have all the information at our disposal.
"At the end of the day, the Government will not leave anybody in the lurch. There are a range of parties that have a role to play, including the Ipswich City Council, insurance companies and other private interests. There are also engineering and building reports to be finalised, determining the extent of the damage. But in the past this Government has stepped in to provide assistance to people affected by subsidence and we will do that again."
Mr Wilson said currently about 20 homes within the investigation area would be assessed for subsidence effects.
"We have a further 17 property owners outside the investigation area who have asked us to check their home."
He said, as difficult a situation as it was for residents and government alike, time was needed to work steadily through the subsidence investigation.
"We first need to get all the necessary information together before the next steps and decisions can be taken," he said.
"The safety of residents remains the immediate priority.
"In every instance, we will err on the side of caution and move residents to temporary accommodation if necessary."
Mr Wilson said the Collingwood Park area was known for subsidence following a similar incidence in the 1980s.
"Maps showing mined-under areas are available from the Department."
Mr Wilson said the State Government would continue to work closely with the Ipswich City Council in response to the subsidence incident.
"The Ipswich City Council has a significant role and shared responsibility in the management and resolution of this matter."
Mr Wilson said a counselling service had been set up through the Department of Communities for residents worried about their homes.
"Should residents want their property checked to be checked for subsidence effects, they are urged to contact freecall 1800 109 122 and leave their details for the department to follow up."
Media inquiries:
Caroline Kaurila 3224 7332.
Last Updated 03 November 2009
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