Tests of soil and groundwater at the the site of the new Brimbank Civic and Community Centre site at Sunshine have found elevated levels of a cancer-causing chemical, which was also discovered at a former Sunshine school.
Chemical engineer and consultant Peter Ramsay gave an expert witness statement to a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal hearing into plans for a 60-unit development at the former Sunvale Primary School.
Mr Ramsay said tests at the Hampshire Road site had recorded “elevated TCE concentrations, above the interim health investigation level criterion for a commercial land use”.
Mr Ramsay’s testimony also revealed that land at the Sunvale PS site is believed to be contaminated with asbestos, heavy metals, ammonia and pesticides, creating an “unacceptable risk” to human health.
“The source of groundwater pollution is likely from a nearby off-site source,” he submitted.
The EPA told Star Weekly last week it was investigating a number of Sunshine sites for contaminants.
Infrastructure and environment director Paul Younis said the council had “taken all necessary measures” in the design and construction of the new civic and community centre.
“Soil and groundwater testing and monitoring have been undertaken by an EPA-accredited and qualified environmental auditor.
“The auditor has confirmed that a commercial building can be built on the site. The testing and monitoring is ongoing,” Mr Younis said.
