Perth beaches shut down after fragments of glass found in sand

Almost 3000 tonnes of sand delivered to two waterways in Perth has been found to contain fragments of recycled glass.

Locals are usually seen swimming, fishing and walking at Quinns Beach and Yanchep Lagoon, but today they were dead quiet.

The sand was delivered to save shores from erosion, but was found on Monday to contain fragments of glass, accidentally having been dug up at a quarry.

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"They actually caught the base of the site, which is the recycled glass it sits on, that's obviously contaminated the sand," City of Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said.

"They are going to source the new sand from the other quarry.

"I am absolutely sure WA Limestone endeavours to ensure this never happens again."

The council has since forced the closures of both waterways and their shores, and is working immediately to replace the tainted sand.

Nearby residents have expressed their shock, warning that the spots are frequented by children.

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"It's a bit of a shock to be honest, knowing that now we're going to make sure it's nice and safe before bringing the kids down here again," Craig Degaetani said.

"Shocked actually, my kids swim down here, and when I tell them the reason it's closed they'll be like 'oh geez no'," Kelly Bailey said.

Local businesses have felt the sting of an empty shoreline, saying they've seen fewer customers through their doors.

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Quinns Beach will be off limits for the rest of the week, while Yanchep won't reopen for 10 days.

Ratepayers won't be forced to pay for the error. It is understood that the contractor hired by the city of Wanneroo will be the one footing the bill.