Kiama Municipal Council has issued a warning after asbestos was found dumped next to the Princes Highway near the Minnamurra Bridge.

Asbestos and other building material has been dumped in a cutting on the northbound side of the road out of sight from passing pedestrians and traffic. 

The warning is issued for motorists and cyclists using the Princes Highway to avoid stopping at the cutting.

Compliance officers for the Council have cordoned off the dumping site and watered down the asbestos until it can be removed by licensed contractors. Licensed contractors who remove the waste will also complete a full clean of the area. 

Asbestos is known for posing a serious health risk if damaged, worked on or weathered. Waterways can become contaminated if asbestos fibres enter a waterway through the improper disposal of asbestos waste, or from released fibres into soil. 

Kiama Council has advised there is no risk to the Minnamurra River becoming contaminated from the asbestos waste found.

Illegal dumping attracts penalties starting at $1,000 ranging to $50,000 for individuals.

You can report illegal dumping to the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at ridonline.epa.nsw.gov.au