Omex, Bellvue

The Omex site in Bellevue was contaminated due to the disposal of acidic oily sludges from former oil recycling between 1955 and 1988.  Remediation was required because of odours and impacts on local ground water resources and river systems. 

The Client
LandCorp and the Department of Environmental Protection

Scope of Work
This sensitive and often controversial project saw the relocation of some local residents and compulsory acquisition of several adjoining properties.  Rezoning was required to meet the State Government’s aim of developing the land for high quality residential.

Benchmark Projects coordinated the acquisition, rezoning, and planning in the early stages of the project.  Senior Project Manager, Adam Parker, whilst working for the Department of Environmental Protection project-managed the remediation activities though to clearances.

Challenges
Key challenges including the facilitation of effective community consultation during the remediation activities and professional odour monitoring and management.  Comprehensive communication and interaction with the local primary school during the remediation was also critical.

Innovations and Solutions
Benchmark Projects focused on a fully integrated community involvement strategy to ensure the project met client, environmental, operational and stakeholder expectations. 

Outcomes
The Omex site was successfully remediated and the local community actively participated in process which created a sense of ownership and a final subdivision plan to meet the needs of future residents.