Navigating Landfill Site Redevelopment Risks

We are constantly reminded by the proponents of the racetrack at Burswood Park that this was a former landfill site. No one is disputing this, but in the many years since that time this former wetland, with a high water table, has had a degree of remediation to make it an attractive public open space.

Let’s look into landfill site redevelopment risks and why this government plan is a nightmare.

Understanding Landfill Site Redevelopment Risks

First off, what exactly are we dealing with when we say “landfill site redevelopment risks”? It’s not just about the obvious “eww, garbage” factor. These sites can be ticking time bombs of environmental and structural issues. Think of it like trying to build a sandcastle on a beach that’s still shifting under your feet.

Some of the major risks include:

• Soil contamination: Landfills often contain hazardous chemicals that seep into the soil. This can make the ground toxic and unsafe for construction or public use.

• Methane gas emissions: As waste decomposes, it releases methane, a highly flammable gas. Without proper management, this can lead to explosions or health hazards. We've already seen this whilst the testing has been going on.

• Ground instability: The ground beneath a landfill can settle unevenly over time, causing structural problems for any buildings or infrastructure. This is obvious in Burswood Park even to Blind Freddy

• Water pollution: Leachate, the liquid that drains from a landfill, can contaminate nearby water sources if not properly contained.

• Legal and regulatory hurdles: Redeveloping a landfill involves navigating a maze of environmental laws and permits, which can be costly and time-consuming. Unless the government decides to ignore its own regulations and laws.

  
  

So, if you’re thinking about turning a landfill into a racetrack, you had better buckle up.

Water being pumped away before on site geotechnical testing

Why Landfill Site Redevelopment Risks Matter

You might be wondering, “Why should I care about these risks? Can’t we just clean it up and move on?” Well, here’s the kicker: ignoring these risks can have serious consequences for public health, the environment, and the public wallet.

Take the example of an ampitheatre on a poorly remediated landfill. If methane gas isn’t properly vented, it can accumulate underground and pose explosion risks. Or imagine putting a racetrack on soil contaminated with heavy metals or toxic chemicals. Not exactly the public asset it should be.

Plus, the financial fallout can be brutal. Unexpected ground settling can damage buildings, leading to costly repairs or even demolition. Legal battles over environmental compliance can drag on for years, draining resources and goodwill. The Tennis Centre and the Crown Car Park are examples of where this has happened adjacent to this site.

In short, these risks aren’t just theoretical—they’re very real and very expensive. And they’re why groups like the Save Burswood Park Alliance are so passionate about protecting existing parklands from ill-conceived redevelopment plans, such as the proposed V8 Supercars race track on Burswood Peninsula. The environmental and community impacts need to be fully considered before any bulldozers roll in.

Assessing and Managing Landfill Site Redevelopment Risks

Alright, so you’re convinced that landfill redevelopment is a risky business. But how do you actually manage those risks? Here’s where science, engineering, and a bit of common sense come into play.

Step 1: Comprehensive Site Assessment

Before you even think about breaking ground, you need a thorough site assessment. This includes:

• Soil and groundwater testing: To identify contaminants and their concentrations.

• Gas monitoring: Measuring methane and other landfill gases.

• Geotechnical surveys: Checking soil stability and settlement patterns.

• Historical research: Understanding what types of waste were dumped and when.

  
  

This data forms the backbone of your risk management plan. Without it, you’re flying blind.

Step 2: Risk Mitigation Strategies

Once you know what you’re dealing with, you can start mitigating risks. Some common strategies include:

• Capping the landfill: Covering the site with an impermeable layer to prevent water infiltration and gas escape.

• Gas collection systems: Installing pipes and vents to safely capture and burn methane.

• Soil remediation: Removing or treating contaminated soil.

• Engineering solutions: Designing foundations that can handle ground movement.

• Water management: Installing barriers and drainage to prevent leachate contamination.

  
  

Each site is unique, so the mix of strategies will vary. But the goal is always the same: make the site safe for its new purpose.

Step 3: Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance

Redevelopment isn’t a “set and forget” deal. Landfills are dynamic environments, and conditions can change over time. Continuous monitoring of gas emissions, groundwater quality, and ground stability is essential. Plus, maintenance of gas collection and capping systems keeps risks in check.

Core samples being analysed on site

Community Concerns and Environmental Advocacy

Let’s not forget the human element here. Redeveloping a landfill site isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a social one. Local communities often have deep concerns about health risks, environmental degradation, and loss of green space.

Groups like the Save Burswood Park Alliance remind us that redevelopment plans must be transparent and inclusive. Community members want to know:

• What risks are involved?

• How will they be managed?

• What are the long-term impacts?

• Will the project truly benefit the community?

  
  

Ignoring these questions can lead to public backlash, protests, and legal challenges. On the flip side, engaging with the community early and often can build trust and lead to better outcomes. The government record on this has been appalling.

Practical Tips for Anyone Involved in Landfill Redevelopment

If you’re involved in a landfill redevelopment project—whether as a planner, developer, or concerned citizen—here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. Do your homework: Understand the site’s history and current condition.

2. Hire experts: Environmental scientists, engineers, and legal advisors are your best friends.

3. Plan for the long haul: Risk management doesn’t end when construction does.

4. Communicate clearly: Keep the community informed and involved.

5. Be realistic: Not every landfill is suitable for redevelopment. Sometimes, the best option is to leave it as open space or parkland.

6. Advocate for transparency: Demand access to environmental reports and risk assessments.

7. Push for sustainable solutions: Look for redevelopment plans that prioritise environmental health and community wellbeing.

   
   

By following these steps, you can help ensure that landfill redevelopment projects are safe, sustainable, and socially responsible.

This government has been blinded by the financial promises of the SuperCar industry and is ploughing on regardless. All they see are the mythical financial benefits. What they have totally failed to address are the financial costs. The pie in the sky figure of $217 million is like something from an episode of Utopia.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Landfill Redevelopment

The good news? Technology and regulations are improving all the time. New methods for soil remediation, gas capture, and site monitoring are making landfill redevelopment safer and more feasible. Plus, there’s growing recognition of the need to balance development with environmental protection.

But the bad news? It’s still a tricky business. Projects like the proposed V8 Supercars race track on Burswood Peninsula highlight how redevelopment can clash with community values and environmental priorities. It’s a reminder that every landfill site has its own story, and that story needs to be told before any bulldozers move in.

So, next time you hear about a landfill site redevelopment, remember: it’s not just about turning trash into treasure. It’s about navigating a complex web of risks, responsibilities, and relationships. And if done right, it can be a win-win for everyone involved.

If you want to learn more about how communities can protect their green spaces and hold governments accountable, check out the Save Burswood Park Alliance for the latest updates and ways to get involved. Because sometimes, the best redevelopment is no redevelopment at all.