A key part of Brimbank’s industrial heritage will “reluctantly” be demolished because of the risk of contamination.
The heritage-listed building at Deer Park, known as the White House, is the oldest remaining building at the former ICI explosives factory.
The factory was built in the 19th century for the manufacture of chemicals and explosives.
The land is being cleaned up by site owner Orica after it was issued with a site remediation notice from the Environment Protection Authority.
The White House, which was once a manager’s residence and later a laboratory, is now deemed an “unacceptable risk” due to its contamination.
Although the council was reluctant to see the “historically significant” building demolished, administrator Jane Nathan said it had no other option.
“It’s [council] done all it can to save this house,” Ms Nathan said.
“It’s with a great deal of sadness and with a heavy heart … I’m supporting this motion, but I wish I didn’t have to.”
Orica was encouraged to retain the building,
but inspections revealed signs of explosives residues from its time as a laboratory and believed there was a strong likelihood of contaminated soil.
“Detector dogs responded to explosives chemicals inside the building,” a council report found.
“There are serious questions over whether the building will be able to be safely retained
“There would appear to be no other viable option than to allow its demolition.”
