23 June 2006

Help keep our streets and harbours free of mud

Auckland City is getting tough with an instant fine of $300 for building contractors who do not keep mud off roads this winter. Heavy rainfall washes silt and sediment from roads into the stormwater system.

This is then flushed into the sea, affecting water quality and harming marine life. Jackie Wilkinson, Auckland City's service requests manager, says building contractors must be more mindful of where mud and debris ends up. "Building contractors must ensure that the necessary steps are taken to prevent clay and soil leaving the construction site," she says. Auckland City reminds building contractors that:

* if a development has resource consent, the consent may require sediment control

* it is a breach of the district plan to allow silt or sediment from earthworks to enter the stormwater system

* a wheel wash may be required on some sites where sediment may be transferred from tyres onto the road

* if mud does get on the road, brooms should be used or vacuum sweeper trucks hired to remove it immediately. Building and earthmoving companies may be subject to an instant fine of $300 from Auckland City if residue from their site is not contained. For more information, visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz or phone Auckland City on 379 2020.

ENDS

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