Eastern Golf Course redevelopment causing health issues say neighbours

PEOPLE living next to a major development in Melbourne’s east say a mountain of dust on the site is making them sick.

People living near the site of the former Eastern Golf Course now being redeveloped say dust pollution is causing health problems. Picture: Chris Eastman

SEVERAL Doncaster residents say living next to a mountain of dust is making them sick.

They say a two-storey high pile of dirt at the development site of the old Eastern Golf Course is not being properly treated and is turning into a giant dust mountain, made worse in Melbourne’s wild weather.

Two Sommerville St homeowners say they are battling sore throats, dry mouths, coughs and runny noses.

The Leader has previously reported on concerns the mountain of dirt wasn’t being properly treated after someone contacted the EPA concerned it might be polluting nearby waterways.

Jo Allen (left) and Terezia Kral outside the site they say is causing them health problems. Picture: Chris Eastman

The EPA asked Manningham Council to investigate, with council chief executive Warwick Winn saying sediment traps would be re-established, with the council to keep an eye on the site.

But now two neighbours say the dust is making them sick and they believe the dirt mountain isn’t being watered to prevent the dust from swirling.

One woman, Jo Allen, said a doctor told her she was allergic to dust.

“My nose is constantly running — I am coughing and am awake during the night because of what I am experiencing,” she said.

The pile of dirt neighbours are unhappy about. Picture: Chris Eastman

“I know that there are at least four individuals in four different residences who are experiencing health problems from the dust that is continually blowing.”

Nearby resident Terezia Kral said many others in the area were suffering and at least three had visited a doctor. She believed the stress was affecting her blood pressure.

Mirvac spokeswoman Elysa Anderson said the company initiated dust suppression measures last week to ensure that sediment remains intact.

Manningham Council has been contacted for comment.