Dangerous chemicals found during probe into West Footscray warehouse inferno

Illegally stored chemicals have been found at multiple sites in Epping and Campbellfield as part of an investigation into the West Footscray warehouse fire earlier this year, that left black smoke billowing across parts of Melbourne.

Illegally stored chemicals have been found at multiple sites in Epping and Campbellfield as part of an investigation into the West Footscray warehouse fire earlier this year.

Security remains at three sites in Campbellfield and at one site on Devon Court in Epping after authorities discovered the hazardous chemicals on Friday.

A statement from the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) said “concerning amounts of liquid chemical waste” were found at industrial sites across the two suburbs.

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The search was part of ongoing investigations into a blaze that engulfed a West Footscray warehouse in August.

More than 140 firefighters battled the fire from the ground and air, with smoke visible as far away as Geelong.

The inferno forced the closure of local roads, business and schools for days as firefighters worked to bring the fire under control.

Hume and Whittlesea Councils are said to be working with the EPA and Worksafe to remove the toxic waste and minimise any risk to local communities.

The EPA said they would not comment any further on the ongoing investigation, but would keep local communities and businesses informed.

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