Persistent wet weather has caused the New Lambton landslip Danger Zone to expand, with another home evacuated.
The 23 May incident caused major destruction across Russell Road, Victoria Street, Baker Street and Portland Place.
A total of 15 homes were vacated on the same day, displacing 29 residents.
Now, the situation is only getting worse.
Significant rainfall across the region over the past few weeks resulted in additional slippage around the affected areas.
On Tuesday 26 August, City of Newcastle (CN) released a statement saying due to recent changes to site conditions, the residents of one property adjoining the affected precinct on Victoria Street had chosen to self-evacuate.
“This decision was made in consultation with their insurer… and they have now moved into temporary accommodation,” a CN spokesperson said.
“Following this, the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON) Superintendent Kylie Endemi has [today] issued an official Evacuation Order for this additional property and expanded the designated Danger Zone to include this additional property on Victoria Street, prioritising the safety of both residents and the public.
“Fencing will be in place along the adjusted danger area boundary.”
The home was already included in regular assessments conducted by CN engineering consultants, including ongoing monitoring of ground movement and the structural integrity of the premises.
“The owners were kept informed and were aware that an evacuation order was an active consideration,” council stated.
No other residents have been asked to vacate and CN admitted it was not aware of any others who have chosen to leave.
“Our teams will continue to monitor the area and assess surrounding properties in liaison with those residents,” the spokesperson said.
“Any change will be communicated to them directly out of respect for their privacy.”
Another property on Baker Street fully collapsed after the recent weather event.
The home was issued a demolition order after the initial landslip in May, due to the risk of ruin.
“We will continue to act on expert geotechnical and engineering advice regarding the safety of any property, and any decision on demolition will be made only on the basis of clear professional recommendations and in consultation with the affected property owner,” the spokesperson said.
“While there is significant structural damage to some homes including the collapsed property, we are not currently aware of any downstream gully impacts.
“We have contacted affected residents and provided an update on the situation.
“We acknowledge how distressing this continues to be for everyone and thank them for their cooperation as safety, stability and recovery planning remain our highest priorities.”
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