The estimated 19 tanks were found under Bradley Street during site preparations for its restructure and upgrade.

Armidale Mayor Simon Murray said it would soon be clear how their management will affect the upgrade of the town’s central business district. 

“In keeping with our original commitment to avoid disruptions to the Guyra CBD during the festive period and the Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival in January, physical works for the project will not begin until February,” Cr Murray said.

ALSO READ: 

Cr Murray said he expected fully investigate the tanks, and dealing with them would cost about $250,000.

“We will need to pinpoint their locations, assess their condition, and quantify any soil contamination caused by leaks from the tanks,” he said.

“Only then we will know exactly how many tanks will need to be removed; how the others might need to be stabilised or rehabilitated; and how much contaminated soil will need to be removed or treated.

“It is unknown whether tanks on the eastern side of the road can be safely removed, or whether they need to be rehabilitated in place because of their close proximity to building foundations.”

Cr Murray said this cost was highly likely to affect street upgrade project funds, which would determine how much of the main street was reconstructed.

He said a schedule for the works would be clearer in March.

The community would be kept updated on any progress made with the work.