A detailed site investigation of Little Bay Beach is likely to take place in late April or early May 2021.  Randwick Council is currently finalising planning for the complex investigation which will require closing the beach to the public for up two weeks and reopening on weekends.

The works program for the detailed site inspection is the result of careful planning by Council and its external expert consultants. Council understands the importance of the beach to residents and visitors and has scheduled the inspection to take place after the April school holiday period.

Every effort will be made to complete the works and re-open the beach as soon as possible however, the two-week program is required to provide contingency for potential delays that may result from poor weather or tidal movements. Regardless of the duration of the works program, the beach will reopen over the weekends. The results from the detailed site inspection will help Council better understand the location, source and extent of the asbestos containing material (ACM) that was first found in early August 2020 and will inform Council’s immediate and long-term plans for the management of Little Bay Beach.

Local Little Bay and south Malabar residents were notified in December 2020 about the need to undertake the detailed assessment. Local residents will be notified again in writing two weeks prior to work commencing with more information.

In the meantime, Council will continue to undertake bi-weekly inspections of the beach, monitor air quality and detect and remove visible asbestos containing materials (ACM) to ensure Little Bay Beach remains safe for general use.

Signage installed at the entrance to the beach advises the public about the presence of ACM and how to enjoy the beach safely.

Keeping the community informed

This is a complex project and Council is committed to keeping the community informed. We will continue to provide project updates via our dedicated web page where you can also sign-up for email alerts. Project updates are also distributed through our e-newsletter, social media and email notifications to subscribers.