Toxic waste zone threatened once again

AGCO Australia says it takes its environmental responsibiltiy seriously. Image: iStock

A group fighting development on buffer land which surrounds a contaminated former industrial tip at Tullamarine has called on Hume council to knock back a fourth proposal to rezone the land for commercial uses.

Transpacific Industries Group (TIG) has applied to create a comprehensive development zone so the land can be subdivided and developed for industrial and commercial uses. The proposal would affect residents in Victoria and Wright streets and Western Avenue.

The Terminate Tulla Toxic Dump Action Group (TTTDAG) met last Tuesday to discuss the impacts on residents and the environment.

Western Region Environment Centre director Harry Van Moorst addressed about 60 residents concerned about the worsening contamination of ground water and air quality, and the associated health risks of living nearby.

“The buffer is the only area standing between residents and the toxic dump,” Mr Van Moorst said. “The buffer provides at least some security.”

The group passed two motions, the first urging Hume council “to exercise its duty of care” and abandon the proposed rezoning.

A second motion requested a planning panel be established to fully assess the environmental, public safety and financial risks posed by the proposal, if council approves the rezoning.