Tara Murray
Brimbank council will investigate concerns about massive dirt piles being left uncovered at the Luma Estate development in Sunshine North.
A resident contacted Star Weekly last week, concerned about the piles of dirt and the impact it was having on the community.
He said dirt from the site had been blown into neighbouring properties, and with school returning, they were concerned it would impact a nearby school.
The site, a Development Victoria site, will comprise about 300 homes once completed.
Development Victoria’s group head of property Penny Forrest said they were working closely with their contractor to manage the stockpiles and ensure that proper measures continue to be implemented so that any impacts to local residents are minimised.
“The initial site clearing phase is well progressed and the soil stockpiles will be progressively removed from the site as the works are undertaken.”
“We thank the local community for their patience and understanding while this phase is taking place and we look forward to delivering on our master plan to establish the LUMA estate.”
Brimbank council city development director Kelvin Walsh said the council hadn’t been made aware of complaints from residents as of yet.
“Planning permits have been issued for part of the site and include an approved Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) which sets out various requirements for the developer during construction.
“The approved CEMP includes dust suppression methods that must be undertaken by the developer to manage dust, as well as other requirements to manage other potential impacts on the amenity of residents and the surrounding environment.
“Council has not yet received any complaints… However, based on the information provided, council will look into the matter to ensure the development is being constructed in accordance with the abovementioned requirements.”
Mr Walsh said any members of the public with concerns should contact the council.
An EPA spokesperson said they hadn’t received any complaints about the dirt piles, but said members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24 hour hotline on 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution
