Novar Gardens
The EPA undertook an environmental assessment within a portion of Novar Gardens in 2006 and 2007. This assessment included testing of soils in streets and road verges to assess possible contamination associated with historical activities in the area.
Lightburn and Co Ltd (Lightburn) operated at a large site on Morphett Road in Novar Gardens from 1946 to 1986, manufacturing a variety of products including washing machines, hydraulic jacks, cement mixers, fibreglass boats and the Lightburn Zeta car. The land was redeveloped for residential use from the 1980s.
In early 2006, an EPA review found that it held a copy of a licence that was issued under the repealed Waste Management Commission Act 1979. The licence was issued for the production of listed waste at the former Lightburn site. As a precaution, the EPA undertook soil bore drilling and sampling in August 2006 and May 2007 along streets and road verges to assess for residual contamination.
The assessment did not identify any significant soil contamination. Minor hydrocarbon impacts were found in a localised area along Henning Court at depths of between 0.5 and 2 m below ground. The laboratory identified these impacts as being consistent with old mineral oil used for machine lubrication. Given the limited extent and depth of this soil contamination there was no risk posed to nearby residents.
No groundwater assessment was undertaken.
The EPA recommends any users of groundwater (bore water) should have it tested regularly to make sure that it is safe for its intended use, consistent with advice from SA Health.
Mains water and water for rainwater tanks are not affected by groundwater (bore water) contamination and home-grown fruit and vegetables are safe to consume, provided that they are not watered with contaminated bore water.
More information about bore water testing is available from the EPA on 8429 7554 or email.
