Port Phillip refers Gasworks clean-up to State Government


Port Phillip Council will ask the State Government to project manage soil remediation works at the Gasworks Arts Park in Albert Park.

The decision follows extensive investigations by Council into the best way of remediating widespread contaminated soil at the popular park – the remnants of a former State Government gasworks operation.

Councillors agreed at last night’s Council meeting to request the State Government, as the original polluter, to project manage any remediation works required to guarantee the long-term safety of park users.

The request will only be made if the Government agrees to a Memorandum of Understanding with Council, guaranteeing the land remains an off-leash park in a native bush setting. Council will advocate for as many mature trees as possible to be retained, where this does not undermine remediation efforts.

Mayor Amanda Stevens said referring the project management to the State Government was standard practice as the Government already had extensive experience in successfully remediating former gaswork sites, including one in Highett.

“We believe this is the quickest, most efficient way to achieve the best outcome for our community as Council has already invested extensive resources into the remediation investigations. Council would remain the Committee of Management for the park throughout the process,” Cr Stevens said.

“We want a transparent process so the community can feel confident about being kept informed throughout the remediation works. Council acknowledges there are several views about the best way forward and we have tried to strike a balance between preserving as many trees as possible with dealing responsively with the widespread contamination confirmed in scientific testing.

“We are committed to staying involved in the remediation and ensuring this much loved park can be safely delivered back to the community to be enjoyed for generations to come.”

The State Government has indicated that, as the original polluter, it will consider accepting the role of remediation project manager at the park.

For more information visit Port Phillip Council