Tenants were advised yesterday of the results of tests undertaken over the last two months to investigate the structure of the building, as well as gas, soil, and groundwater on the property.

Test results showed that:

• Structurally, the buildings are satisfactory from a health and safety perspective.
• Minor settling of floors in some units will be relatively easy to repair.

Gas tests conducted on site showed very low (trace) levels of methane gas. The health and safety of Council tenants is not of concern due to this.

Results of soil tests have indicated that some contaminants are present. However, Dr Mel Brieseman, of Crown Public Health, advises that the results of tests so far suggest that existing level of soil contamination is of very low risk to the health of tenants, including those who have been eating vegetables grown on the property. Dr Brieseman advised that there is likely to be less risk than most normal every-day exposure to similar contaminants (for example those in traffic fumes). However, he said that as a precaution, it would be sensible to cease growing and eating vegetables, and growing flowers in existing plots.

Water tests will be undertaken of the groundwater in November.

Rob Dally, Property Manager at Christchurch City Council, said that the health and safety of tenants at Lyn Christie Place has been the Council’s first priority in dealing with this issue.

“The Council has worked as quickly as possible to reassure tenants of a healthy and safe environment. We have carefully carried out a series of investigations in order to gather enough information that was accurate and useful. We are still waiting for some tests to be conducted”, said Mr Dally.

Mr Dally said that the Council had developed a plan to address the issues at Lyn Christie place, which included:

1. Meeting with tenants to answer any questions (scheduled for 5.30pm October 25th).
2. A recommendation that tenants cease growing and eating vegetables, and growing flowers in existing plots.
3. Consulting with tenants to evaluate options for new garden areas.
4. Continuing to rectify any cracks and gaps caused through settling of the floors of the units.
5. Undertaking a further assessment of gas levels in November or December this year.
6. Testing of groundwater.

Further information:

• Angus Smith, Acting Property Manager, Christchurch City Council, ph: 379 1660 extension 8502 (until Monday 29 October)
• Rob Dally, Property Manager, Christchurch City Council, ph: 379 1660 extension 8500 (available from Monday 29 October)
• Dr Mel Brieseman, Crown Public Health, ph: 379 9480 extension 803.