Goulburn Mulwaree Council sent a strong message of support for the community at Tuesday night's council meeting, when considering a report on the NSW Government Energy from Waste Infrastructure Plan.
Council stated its total opposition to waste to energy or waste incineration facilities in the Goulburn Mulwaree Local Government area. Council also placed on public record that it had no direct input into development of this plan or the inclusion of the Southern Goulburn Mulwaree Precinct, and acknowledged that they will strongly support the community position to ensure that environmental and public health outcomes are the number one priority.
The plan was released by the NSW Government on the 10th September and named four precincts where energy from waste projects will be considered in NSW, one being the 'Southern Goulburn Mulwaree Precinct' which indicates the Woodlawn precinct at Tarago.
"On Tuesday night we heard from 16 concerned residents who are justifiably worried about this proposal and the potential impacts. We've also received significant written feedback, especially over the past couple of weeks following the release of this plan" said Mayor Bob Kirk.
"There is no method for us to halt the state significant development process, but we intend to respond strongly to the Environmental Impact Statement. It is also critical that the proposal contain all technical reports which will be relied upon by the NSW Government and Veolia in order to promote transparency and to demonstrate the environmental and public health benchmarks that must be met."
"We are united in our opposition to waste to energy projects in our region, and will be responding strongly to the Veolia proposal based on emissions and absolute protection of the environment, including the health of humans, livestock and biodiversity."
Furthermore, Council will also formally request the NSW Government to undertake an immediate review of the Chief Scientists Report on Energy from Waste.
The General Manager will also prepare a paid advertisement for the Tarago Times setting out Council's position on the Veolia Advanced Recovery Centre project proposal to ensure clarity in the community in terms of the process that Council is required by law to follow.
