Tunnelling on the West Gate Tunnel Project is now complete. To build the twin tunnels, approximately 1.5 million cubic meters of rock and soil was removed and transported to a purpose-built storage facility.
Because the project is being built in former industrial areas, it was expected that contaminated soil would be found and need to be managed in line with EPA requirements.
Testing prior to tunnelling found low levels of the group of chemicals known as PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Results from these tests were reported against relevant regulatory standards.
This testing indicated there would be levels of PFAS between zero and 0.7 micrograms per litre – which is between detectable limits and water that is safe to swim in.
Despite the low levels expected, the project’s first priority is to make sure protections are in place for the community and workers in line with EPA and WorkSafe requirements.
A purpose built facility Hi-Quality Group’s Sunbury Eco-Hub was established in Bulla to manage and dispose of soil excavated by the West Gate Tunnel Project.
The site establishment went through a planning process prior to construction:
- As part of the planning approvals, a traffic management plan has been prepared by Hi Quality and approved by the Department of Transport.
- Hi Quality's Environmental Management Plan for the West Gate Tunnel Project
- Planning Scheme Amendment - Hi-Quality
Further information on actual levels of PFAS detected during tunnel excavation are available on the EPA website.