Press Release  MassDEP Fines Property Owner for Environmental Violations at Former Metal Plating Facility in Worcester

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has assessed a $49,050 penalty to 6 Sutton Place, LLC, for violating state cleanup regulations at a former electroplating facility located at 6 Sutton Place and 38 Sutton Lane in Worcester.

Releases of oil and hazardous materials from former industrial operations contaminated the property and affected neighboring residents, requiring a treatment system to prevent contamination from entering nearby homes and impacting indoor air. The property owner failed to assess the contamination, take the actions necessary to prevent exposure to chemicals, and develop and implement a cleanup plan.  

“Property owners must continually assess site conditions to determine if immediate action is needed, while also developing and implementing a long-term cleanup plan to address releases of oil and hazardous material to the environment,” said John Beling, director of the MassDEP Central Regional Office in Worcester. “Failure to do so may result in enforcement action including possible fines and penalties.” 

Under the terms of the consent order with MassDEP, the owner is required to pay the $49,050 penalty and immediately assess and take appropriate action for potential exposure to people at and near the site, as well as prepare and implement a long-term cleanup plan. 

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