The Bombo Quarry staircase remains closed to the public after another delay. Photo: Kiama Council.
The opening of the Bombo Quarry staircase has again been delayed, this time due to the builders failing to meet compliance requirements.
The project – which received NSW Government funding in 2018 – has been plagued by problems since work started early in 2021. The staircase will eventually link the old Bombo Quarry to the Bombo Headland Eco Walk above it.
Early work was halted due to the COVID lockdown in Greater Sydney when contractors could not travel to Kiama.
Work was further delayed in 2022 by the extended wet weather and heavy seas that regularly flooded the work site, creating unsafe conditions.
In January this year, Kiama Council announced hold-ups in the supply and delivery of the staircase handrail had again halted the work. The council has since apologised twice to the community for delays to the project.
Despite the staircase sitting ready for walkers, it can’t be handed back to the council as the owner and opened until the building contractors achieve an occupation certificate.
Although the stairs are structurally sound, they require adjustments such as to stair treads to meet compliance standards.
Council’s director of infrastructure and liveability Michael Malone said the council again apologised for the protracted delay in opening the stairway.
However, given the importance of the project, council staff and contractors, along with a structural design consultant, are investigating the compliance issues and working towards rectification.
“This project has been beset by delays including COVID, weather and construction industry-wide issues that slowed progress,” he said.
“We are working hard to ensure the stairs can be opened and enjoyed by all. I am looking forward to the stairs being open and providing better access to this magnificent part of our foreshore.”
Kiama Council has asked the public not to use the staircase until it can be safely opened.
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