Old factories, service stations and contaminated sites that pose a risk to the population will be audited under a scheme proposed in new report handed to the Victorian Government.

The new report, prepared by the Potentially Contaminated Land Advisory Committee, delivers a number of recommendations that State Planning Minister, Matthew Guy, says will result in a significant improvement of the management of contaminated land in the state.

“Victoria needs a sensible balance between managing contaminated land and facilitating the reuse of these sites by ensuring appropriate protections are put in place to protect human health and the environment.”

“The Advisory Committee report provides a number of practical and simple ways to improve clarity and address gaps in the regulatory framework,” Mr Guy said.

The Department of Planning and Community Development will implement a number of recommendations to improve the operation of the Environmental Audit Overlay and strengthen planning guidelines.

Mr Guy said that improvements to the regulatory framework for contaminated environments are critical as Victoria continues to grow with the need to facilitate the redevelopment of existing urban areas that are undergoing change.

“Improving the planning and management of potentially contaminated land will also provide greater certainty and support for urban renewal,” Mr Guy said.

The full report can be found here