Concerns Over Contaminated Timber Prompt Closure of Rozelle Parklands Playground

The Rozelle parklands playground in Sydney has been closed again due to concerns over potentially hazardous timber used in its construction. This follows a previous incident in early 2024 when asbestos was discovered in garden mulch, leading to the park's initial closure shortly after its opening. On March 20, 2026, a local resident alerted authorities to the possibility of contamination from salvaged railway timber, prompting immediate action from Transport for NSW and the Inner West council.

The Guardian

The parklands were developed on the site of former disused rail yards as part of the Rozelle interchange project, which aimed to repurpose the area while celebrating its industrial history. However, a 2016 report from the transport department warned against reusing treated timber, such as railway sleepers, due to potential chemical hazards. Despite this, timber from the rail yards was salvaged and incorporated into playground structures, including balance beams and walkways.

The Guardian

The concerned resident, who initially reported the asbestos contamination, took proactive measures by contacting Transport for NSW and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regarding the timber's safety. After receiving assurances that the issue was being investigated, the resident marked off the area with hazard tape and communicated with local officials. The Inner West council responded by erecting fencing around the affected areas while awaiting the removal and testing of the timber.

The Guardian

Transport for NSW confirmed that some timber had been removed "out of an abundance of caution" and was undergoing assessment. A spokesperson emphasized that no contaminants had been confirmed at that time, although the investigation was ongoing.

The Guardian

In light of the previous asbestos incident, the joint builders of the Rozelle project, John Holland and CPB Contractors, have agreed to pay $150,000 to SafeWork NSW for worker training in safe asbestos handling. However, both companies declined to comment on the current situation regarding the timber testing.

The Guardian

Critics have raised concerns about the management of the parklands project, particularly regarding the reuse of materials that may pose health risks. The resident who reported the timber contamination expressed frustration over the delayed response from Transport for NSW and the lack of immediate action to secure the area.

The Guardian

Transport for NSW continues to investigate the source of the salvaged timber and its safety. The EPA, while not conducting its own testing, has been in communication with Transport for NSW regarding the community's concerns. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to ensure the safety of the playground and the surrounding parklands.

The Guardian

• “Transport for NSW continues to investigate, including the source of the salvaged timber.” — Transport for NSW Spokesperson

The Guardian

• “Unfortunately, fencing or removal were not carried out over the weekend, as had been committed to by Transport for NSW,” — Inner West Council Spokesperson

The Guardian

• “Please be patient as this may take some time,” — Transport for NSW Communication

The Guardian

This ongoing situation highlights the complexities involved in repurposing historical sites and the importance of community vigilance in ensuring public safety.

The Guardian