Groundwater prohibition area proposed at Royal Park
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is proposing to establish a groundwater prohibition area (GPA) in parts of Royal Park.
It follows further assessment of groundwater quality in the area that confirmed the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
The GPA is adjacent to two other existing GPAs, the West Lakes and Royal Park GPA and the Hendon and surrounding suburbs GPA.
If groundwater is affected or threatened by site contamination and action is needed to prevent actual or potential harm to human health or safety as a result of the taking of that water, the EPA has the ability under the Environment Protection Act 1993 to establish a GPA.
The EPA is proposing to prohibit the taking of groundwater to a depth of 13.5 metres below the ground.
EPA's Acting Director of Policy, Assessment and Finance Rebecca Hughes said the GPA has been proposed by the EPA to prevent potential harm to human health.
“A stage two assessment was undertaken and found that low levels of PFAS were detected in all groundwater samples collected,” Ms Hughes said.
“The EPA assessment at Royal Park indicates PFAS in groundwater is likely from diffuse sources, reflecting the wide range of historic and current consumer, commercial and industrial products and articles in which PFAS have been used.
“The purpose of establishing GPAs is to protect current and future landholders from accessing contaminated groundwater.
“Rainwater and mains water are not affected by the groundwater contamination and can be used.”
There are approximately 500 property titles in the GPA, of which 75% are residential properties and parks.
The proposed GPA is expected to be gazetted on 7 November 2024.
For further information please visit https://engage.epa.sa.gov.au/royal-park-groundwater-prohibition-area
