Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has approved Environment Management Plans (EMP) for Maddingley Brown Coal in Bacchus Marsh and Hi Quality in Bulla as part of their applications to receive tunnel boring machine spoil from the West Gate Tunnel Project.
EPA assessed the plans for potential environmental impacts, such as runoff, odour, and potential land, surface water and ground water risks. The approval of an EMP does not mark the final decision on where the spoil will be sent.
Under Government regulations the owner of a site bidding to receive TBM spoil must develop an EMP and comply with specific conditions including constructing an appropriate containment system and managing spoil appropriately so risks are controlled.
“These EMPs will ensure the health of the local community and the environment is protected,” said EPA Executive Director of Regulatory Standards, Assessments and Permissioning Tim Eaton.
“EPA will closely monitor these sites to make sure that they are complying with their EMP and best practice safety measures to protect the local community and environment.”
The EPA will continue to monitor the treatment and containment of this type of spoil to ensure that it meets rigorous public health and environmental standards to keep Victorians safe.
To view the EMPs and associated documents, visit: https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/current-projects-issues/major-infrastructure-and-development/west-gate-tunnel-project/west-gate-tunnel-project-emps
BACKGROUND
New regulations under section 71 of the Environment Protection Act 1970 allow for the management and disposal of tunnel boring machine (TBM) spoil to protect human health and the environment.
