Thank you to all residents who have sent correspondence in relation to the proposal from Hi-Quality in Bulla for soil from the West Gate Tunnel Project.

As a lifelong Sunbury local and resident of our community I understand your concerns and I appreciate you taking the time to share them with me.

Like you, I have had questions about this proposal (one which I am not advocating for) which is being managed by Transurban and its builder CPB-John Holland, independently of State Government.

As I understand it, there are currently a number of sites across Melbourne who have tendered for this job and all are currently under review – no decision has been made.

I have raised these concerns directly with the Minister for Transport Infrastructure and the Minister for Planning.

I have also made my own enquires with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and have been advised that tests of groundwater levels along the West Gate Tunnel alignment have previously been conducted. These groundwater tests show very low levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

While the groundwater tests indicate very low levels of contamination, the EPA is taking a precautionary approach and is requiring that further testing be undertaken once the soil is excavated.

As Victoria’s regulator of pollution and waste, the EPA will use the full extent of its powers to ensure that the West Gate Tunnel Project and the eventual receiving site deliver on their environmental and public health duties under the Environment Protection Act 1970.

If you would like to discuss this particular concern further you are able to contact 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) or email contact@epa.vic.gov.au.

Despite these assurances from the EPA, I have still raised the communities concerns about the proximity of future homes, businesses, waterways and the potential transport corridor associated with such a proposal.

It is however important to note that Hi-Quality are a reputable recycling and waste management business, operating to the highest standards across Australia.

They are also a significant local employer, generating economic activity in a time where local jobs are harder to come by thanks to Covid-19.

It is my job as your local MP is to ensure that the community’s voice is heard by Transurban and CPB-John Holland as they consider this proposal and I will continue to advocate for our views to be taken into account.

I do appreciate that you may have more questions on this complex matter and am happy
to have a chat with you on the phone.

If you’d like to talk, please email me your return phone number and I‘ll be in touch.

PS: To learn more and to ensure you have all of the facts in relation to the project please visit:
https://westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/

PDF: WGT Statement 01072020