THE Defence Department is conducting tests at a former Maribyrnong weapons site for residue left over from chemical weapons.
A defence spokesman has confirmed further testing of the site in and around buildings to ensure research work has not left residual traces of chemical agents in buildings or soils.
Places Victoria is seeking to redevelop the 128-hectare site for more than 3000 new homes.
The site — closed to the public for over a century — is a former Department of Defence explosives and propellant manufacturing facility.
“Research into defences against chemical attack was undertaken in these buildings,” the spokesman said. “The quantities of these gaseous chemical materials would have been very small and the likelihood that significant residual contamination remains after such a long time is considered very low.” The department nevertheless expects testing to continue for up to 18 months. The decision to test for toxic chemicals was prompted by the discovery of records relating to research and testing at Maribyrnong and a chemical weapons remediation project at Columboola, in Queensland. Any toxic chemical traces will be neutralised “by very experienced, trained personnel”.
The spokesman said works might include taking down and neutralising contaminated buildings, structures or soils. “There will be a very low risk to the surrounding community as any contaminants found will be captured and neutralised on site.”
Excavation work will be carried out in enclosures wherever any risk is identified.
