Platypus Remediation Project
Planning is now underway for the remediation of the former HMAS Platypus site. This is the first step in transforming the former submarine base into a new public waterfront location.
Over the years this complex site in Neutral Bay has been transformed and its sandstone cliffs excavated: firstly for a gasworks, then a workshop for servicing torpedoes, and finally a base for Australia's submarines.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Defence and the Harbour Trust has now been signed. Defence has agreed to pay for the costs associated with the decontamination of the Platypus site.
Remediation Project Stages
The current plan is to carry out the remediation project in two stages:
Stage 1 encompasses the above ground remediation and site preparatory works. During this stage, the wharf and seawall will be repaired, sediments in the adjacent waterways investigated to provide background reference information, dilapidation surveys undertaken, above ground contaminants including lead and asbestos will be removed from all buildings and surrounds, the heritage significant retort building dismantled and the administration building and adjacent store demolished. Stage 1 is planned for completion in late 2010.
The Trust is currently finalising the Draft Site Management Plan for the Stage 1 Works which details the scope of work and the proposed mitigation measures to ameliorate potential environmental impacts.
Stage 2 addresses the below ground contaminant removal and groundwater management works. During this stage, the estimated 35,000 tonnes of below ground hazardous contaminants will be removed and treated, the contaminated ground and seepage water will be treated and a plan for future groundwater management put in place. Planning for this stage is now underway. Stage 2 is planned for completion in late 2012.
Community Consultation
The Harbour Trust is working closely with the local community during the HMAS Platypus remediation project. There are several ways in which the community will be consulted during the works. Details about community meetings and newsletters will be regularly posted below as the project progresses.
CAC Meeting Minutes
The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for HMAS Platypus meets regularly to discuss issues about the project.Read minutes and view presentations from the CAC meetings for HMAS Platypus
Newsletters
The Harbour Trust sends out regular newsletters to the local community keeping people up to date with the remediation project.Read the June 2010 newsletter
Community Meetings
The Trust recently invited neighbours of the HMAS Platypus site to attend a meeting to discuss issues and concerns regarding the Platypus remediation project.Read questions and answers raised at the neighbours meeting on 23 March 2010
