Arabic version: سكان يبلغون عن تآكل الأراضي المرتبط بأعمال حفر مشروع الإسكان

Residents of the Burnie suburb of Romaine, Tasmania, are expressing concerns that excavation works for a state government housing project have caused their land to start slipping downhill. According to ABC News, some residents have found access to their own backyards restricted due to crumbling land that has started to slide towards the ongoing development.

The excavation, part of a state government initiative to build new housing, has caused temporary fencing to be erected in residents’ backyards, effectively blocking access to areas such as sheds and garages. Geoff Dyke, a resident affected by the works, reported a two-to-three-metre drop at the edge of his backyard and noted that he had lost access to part of his property.

Dyke mentioned that while he is frustrated, he remains hopeful for a resolution, stating, “We’ve been here 30 something years … so another 12 months won’t matter.” However, he expressed concerns over the lack of communication from the developer regarding the timeline for necessary repairs, such as the construction of a retaining wall.

Another resident, Jacob Carpenter, voiced his frustration over safety issues for his children and pets, as the temporary fencing has made it unsafe for them to play in their backyard. Carpenter has also lost access to a strip of land that is now behind the fencing, further complicating the situation.

In response to the issues raised, Homes Tasmania stated that they take residents’ concerns seriously and are implementing an alternative construction methodology to expedite the completion of works and necessary remediation. The organization emphasized that they are actively monitoring the situation and are committed to ensuring safety measures are in place. Burnie City Council is also involved, keeping track of the developments and actions taken to address the residents’ concerns.