BUILDERS in Port Stephens are being reminded of their responsibility to protect the environment after a company was fined $18,000 for water pollution offences at Seaside Estate, Fern Bay.

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The matter was heard by Newcastle Local Court on Monday 28 August, where the building company was found guilty of multiple pollution offences, fined and ordered to pay Council’s legal costs.

Nicholas Jones, Council’s Acting Coordinator Environmental Health and Compliance, says it’s a good result for ratepayers.

“Council fined the building company for not having adequate sediment controls in place, which allowed sand and soils to enter the stormwater pits on multiple sites at Seaside Estate, Fern Bay,” Mr Jones said.

“This result sends the message to all builders that they have a responsibility to protect our precious natural environment here in Port Stephens,” he added.

Mr Jones said builders need to make sure they uphold their responsibilities throughout the construction period.

“This particular builder took the time to install sediment controls, but failed to make sure they were maintained for the life of the construction,” Mr Jones said.

“Council takes environmental breaches like this extremely seriously. If builders are unsure about their responsibilities under the environmental legislation, they can contact us here at Council,” he added.