We’re restoring the former Portland Gasworks site at 25 Glenelg Street, Portland to make it cleaner, safer and ready for future use. The works will begin in late August 2025 until mid-2026. The works will be done by our environmental contactor Ventia on our behalf.
The project involves removing and disposing contaminated soil left behind from historical gasworks operations. Independent environmental consultants and an auditor will oversee the work to help protect community health and the environment.
Why this work matters
Restoring the site will:
- remove hazardous substances from the soil, improving environmental and public health outcomes
- protect local groundwater resources from contamination
- reduces risks of odour, dust, vapours and contaminated runoff affecting nearby properties
- create short-term local employment and economic stimulus during remediation works
- support future redevelopment in the Portland area.
Who's delivering the works
The Portland Gasworks remediation is being delivered by Ventia, an infrastructure services provider in Australia and New Zealand. With experience in environmental remediation, Ventia specialises in safely managing clean-up projects like this one - from planning and design through to monitoring and completion.
They’re responsible for day-to-day site works and will be the first point of contact for any community questions or concerns during the project.
You can contact Ventia directly:
Phone: 1300 836 842
Email: gasworksremediation@ventia.com
What you can expect
Construction will occur during approved working hours. Temporary site infrastructure will be set up, including:
- enclosed work zones (large tent-like structures)
- site offices and fencing
- a water treatment plant.
You may notice more vehicle movements and some temporary noise or odour. All activity will be managed under a Construction Environment Management Plan that includes controls for dust, noise, odour, stormwater and traffic. Site access will be from Glenelg Street, with traffic management in place to safely guide people through the area.
We’re committed to keeping the community informed, with regular updates, signage and opportunities for residents to ask questions.
Environmental protections
We’re using best-practice methods to reduce impacts during the project:
- Odour control tents, water spraying and covered stockpiles.
- Regular monitoring of air quality, noise and vibration.
- Secure fencing and site containment.
- All waste soil will be tested and sent to licensed facilities.
- Groundwater and stormwater will be managed to prevent off-site impacts.
If any of the environmental limits are exceeded, we’ll take corrective action taken immediately.
Keeping the community safe and informed
The site is close to homes and the Portland Powerhouse Museum, so minimising disruption is a top priority. We’ll continue to engage with nearby residents and stakeholders through:
- project updates and site signage
- regular community briefings
- a dedicated hotline for questions or concerns (including odour reports).
This project is part of our broader commitment to safety, environmental responsibility and transparency.