Proposed groundwater ban at Elizabeth South
The EPA is proposing to establish a groundwater prohibition area (GPA) in a number of suburbs around Elizabeth South due to contamination from past industrial activities.
The area covers parts of Elizabeth South, Edinburgh, Edinburgh North and Salisbury North.
The EPA establishes GPAs to protect public health by preventing exposure to contaminated groundwater. In this case the contaminants are chlorinated hydrocarbons, per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and metals associated with manufacturing.
EPA Director Policy, Assessment and Finance Kathryn Bellette said assessments had shown that groundwater in the upper three aquifers is affected to a depth of 35 metres.
“The purpose of establishing GPAs is to protect current and future landholders from accessing contaminated groundwater,” Ms Bellette said.
“Past activity in the area includes vehicle manufacturing, vehicle maintenance, other various industrial sites and a railway line.”
Before establishing the GPA, the EPA is undertaking a 90-day engagement period and wants to hear from residents and bore users.
There are around 440 property titles in the proposed GPA.
For more information visit Elizabeth South engage page