A vacant block of land bought as part of the Newport level crossing removal project (LXRP), could be contaminated with asbestos.
The property situated at the end of Akuna Drive in Williamstown North is currently being investigated for traces of asbestos after the previous owner alerted the LXRP to possible contamination.
The ex-industrial property was bought by the LXRP so Akuna Drive could be extended to link Maddox Road and Champion Road after the latter is closed to traffic as part of level crossing removal plans.
Local residents already opposed to the planned closure of Champion Road, noticed signs warning of asbestos attached to fencing on the site last week.
A spokesperson for the LXRP said there was no risk to the public regardless of whether asbestos was found or not.
“We were advised from the previous landowner of possible contaminants onsite and we will work closely with the relevant authorities to ensure strict requirements are met,“ the spokesperson said.
“The discovery of asbestos is very common on worksites across Melbourne and any works needed to remove it will be done by licenced removalists in accordance with the regulations.“
Newport resident and member of the Keep Champion Road Open campaign group, Damian Costin, said both his father and grandfather died from mesothelioma caused by asbestos.
“It’s triggering,” said Mr Costin of learning about the possible contamination nearby.
He said it had only deepened his opposition to the Newport LXRP.
“We’re asking for it to be thrown out,” said Mr Costin, adding that the government was treating the western suburbs with contempt.
“If this was happening in Kooyong do you reckon they would do it there? Absolutely not.”
News of the possible asbestos contamination came as Liberal representative for Western Metropolitan Trung Luu accused Williamstown MP and cabinet minister Melissa Horne of gaslighting her constituents over the planned closure of Champion Road and that she was only pretending to be concerned.
“She’s either in favour of closure of Champion Road, or she’s not,” said Mr Luu who asked why Ms Horne had not been able to have her voice heard in cabinet.
“If she’s not in favour of closing this vital road, she should stop misleading the community.”
Ms Horne said she had attended meetings, forums, tabled a petition in parliament, and discussed community concerns with ministers.
“Ensuring the community’s views are represented is always my highest priority,” she said.
