Northern Beaches Council is throwing its weight behind a Sydney-wide push urging developers and builders to better control environmentally damaging sediment run-off from commercial and residential building sites.

The month-long ‘Get the Site Right’ erosion control campaign was launched on 1 November.

‘Get the Site Right’ is focused on improving erosion and sediment control at commercial and residential building sites and aims to raise awareness about the effects of soil and sediment run-off on our waterways.

Throughout November, building sites will be monitored to ensure that they comply with erosion and sediment control guidelines and plans.

Council officers will be providing education material to raise awareness as well as issuing warnings and fines to non-compliant sites to ensure developers, builders and home renovators do the right thing.

Northern Beaches’ Mayor, Michael Regan, said: “It is extremely important that builders and renovators be aware of the rules when it comes to protecting waterways from sediment runoff. “

“Silt and sediment washed from building sites not only looks awful, it also smothers aquatic plants and animals and contributes to poor water quality impacting on the health of our waterways”, said Mayor Regan.

Community members are encouraged to report pollution incidents by contacting Northern Beaches Council on 1300 434 434 or by calling the Environment Line on 131 555.

Council has joined forces with the Parramatta River Catchment Group, Sydney Coastal Councils Group, Cooks River Alliance, Georges River Combined Councils Committee, NSW Environment Protection Authority, Department of Planning and Environment and other councils in support of the ‘Get the Site Right’ campaign.