ATTRIBUTABLE TO AN EPA SPOKESPERSON

Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has approved an Environment Management Plan (EMP) for Cleanaway’s Spoil Management and Reuse Facility.

The proposed location of the facility is adjacent to Melbourne Regional Landfill in Ravenhall and is part of Cleanaway’s application to receive tunnel boring machine spoil from the West Gate Tunnel Project.

EPA assessed the plan for potential environmental impacts, such as potential land, surface water and groundwater risks, noise and air quality. EPA has determined that there are appropriate measures detailed in the plan to keep the environment and community safe.

The approval of an EMP does not mark the final decision on where the spoil will be sent. Transurban and its builder are responsible for that decision. 

This is the third EMP EPA has approved for this project and EPA does not expect there to be further applications.

Under Government regulations, the owner of a site bidding to receive the spoil must develop an EMP and comply with specific conditions including constructing an appropriate containment system and managing spoil appropriately, so risks are controlled.

The health of the local community and environment is EPA’s highest priority.  EPA will ensure a rigorous approach to compliance and all safety measures are followed.

EPA will continue to monitor the treatment and containment of this type of spoil to ensure that it meets critical public health and environmental standards to keep Victorians safe.

Regulations under section 71 of the Environment Protection Act 1970 allow for the management and disposal of tunnel boring machine spoil to protect human health and the environment.