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30/04/08Collingwood Park building inspections commence
Building inspections of the worst subsidence-affected homes in Collingwood Park began today, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said.
Mr Wilson said subsidence continued yesterday (Tuesday) in the main investigation area at the intersection of Duncan, McLaughlin and McInnerney Streets Collingwood Park, although the rate of subsidence had slowed.
"Yesterday's survey results from the Ipswich City Council showed the subsidence was between three and five centimetres, compared to seven to 12 centimetres the previous day," Mr Wilson said.
"The extent of subsidence in parts of Warren Court is still unclear, and will need further survey readings before more is known.
"The full extent of the affected area may take several weeks to be known."
An aerial photograph showing the investigation area, and where survey markers have been installed, is available at www.dme.qld.gov.au
Mr Wilson said Collingwood Park residents could contact freecall 1800 109 122 if they were concerned about their property, even if they were outside the investigation area.
"The Government has set up a team to respond to all calls to the freecall number.
"Naturally there are many nearby residents outside the investigation area who have concerns, and officers from my Department will visit their properties as soon as possible.
"The first homes to be checked are those within the investigation area and showing clear structural damage, including five evacuated properties.
"I urge people to be patient if their home is outside this investigation area. I can assure these residents that the department will be in touch with them in the near future."
Mr Wilson said a structural engineer would provide services including:
- Initial visual assessments of the affected houses
- Compiling photographic records of internal and external damage
- Classifying defects in accordance with the Australian building standard for residential slabs and footings
- Spot level readings of external brickwork coursing and/or floors
- Initial assessment reports incorporating details of structural safety.
Those houses with significant damage would have more detailed reports provided.
Mr Wilson said a coordination point had been set up at the corner of Collingwood Drive and Duncan Streets, and an officer would be on-site daily.
Ipswich residents wishing to find out whether there is a disused mine under their property can do a search on the Ipswich City Council planning website, where known mining influence areas are mapped.
Visit http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/business/planning/ and click on the PD Online link.
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