By Ben Cameron
Brimbank council is considering legal action against those found to have dumped asbestos in Cairnlea.
Those responsible for dumping waste containing asbestos from the recently demolished Corkman Irish Pub in Carlton are facing fines of nearly $760,000.
Environmental Protection Authority Metro Manager Dan Hunt said on Tuesday the waste was found at 93 Furlong Road.
“EPA officers took samples of the waste at the Cairnlea site today (October 25) and test results have confirmed asbestos is present,” he said.
Brimbank council Director City Development Stuart Menzies said today the actions of the dumpers were “disgusting”.
“Council will also be exploring its own legal options to seek penalties and prosecution for this deplorable behaviour,” he said.
“We are assisting the EPA with its response and council compliance and environmental officers have inspected the site.
“Cairnlea is a great suburb and a community who deserve much better from this operator.”
The land owners have been told to moisten and cover the waste to prevent any dust blowing onto neighbouring properties, and erect a sign saying there is asbestos at the site.
The face fines of up to $758,350 if prosecuted.
“The owner will be required to undertake air monitoring at the site to ensure there is no airborne asbestos present; they must also install controls to prevent any sediment from the premises discharging and contaminating the local storm water system,” Mr Hunt said.
“The tip-off we received really demonstrates the value of community reporting, and we thank the person who called us.
“It may have taken us much longer to find the waste without that valuable information.”
The site must be assessed by an asbestos consultant by November 18.
