7-Eleven Stores Pty Ltd has been fined more than $7700 for failing to clean up fuel contamination in groundwater under its Newport store.
The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) learned of the fuel contamination at the 438 Melbourne Road site from a report to its pollution hotline.
EPA metropolitan region manager Daniel Hunt said the chain had known of the pollution for two years.
“An EPA investigation found what has been analysed and appears to be weathered petrol, in groundwater at and in the immediate vicinity of the premises,” he said.
“During the investigation in February 2017, it was disappointing to uncover that 7-Eleven had known about the hydrocarbon issue at the site since it received a report in 2015, yet had failed to undertake any form of clean up.”
It is yet to be determined if the contamination has spread beyond the site.
The EPA has issued a notice requiring underground fuel tanks and equipment to be tested for leaks.
The chain must also provide an approved interim clean-up plan completed by an EPA-appointed environmental auditor.
7-Eleven spokesman Clayton Ford disputed that the company had failed to act for two years.
“In 2015, 7-Eleven detected some levels of contamination but which did not warrant active remediation,” he said.
“7-Eleven instituted monitoring at the site, and subsequent testing in late 2016 revealed that the levels of hydrocarbons were rising.
“Upon receipt of this report, we instructed our consultants to investigate further and to take appropriate remedial action, which is still in process.
“7-Eleven is disappointed by the EPA’s pre-emptive statement before the proper processes have been fully worked through.”
Mr Ford said it was open to 7-Eleven to contest the infringement.
“We have already shared information with the EPA that shows the issue is not as clear-cut as it has alleged, and we are seeking further advice in relation to the matter,” he said.
