Controversial plans for the extension of a north-west landfill site should be halted until “significant” odour issues are addressed, according to Brimbank council.
Formally objecting to Boral’s plans to expand its Ravenhall facility – which is in Melton City – Brimbank chairman John Watson said any increases should be made in strict, incremental stages.
“It’s too much too soon,’’ he said. ‘‘Clearly there are problems with it. Our residents are taking the brunt of the odour issues.”
Brimbank has no jurisdiction in the matter, which could go before Melton council by June.
Boral’s application seeks to extend its operations by 179 million cubic metres. If approved, it would create one of the biggest garbage dumps in Australia.
Brimbank administrator John Tanner said the site was important but “must be managed properly”.
Two petitions objecting to Boral’s plans have attracted about 6000 signatures.
Kororoit MP Marlene Kairouz said about 4000 signatures had been collected for a petition to be tabled in State Parliament.
“Melton City Council has also received approximately 2000 objections, which they believe is the most received on an application,” she said.
About 500 people angry at Boral’s plans attended a community meeting in Caroline Springs on February 26.
A Brimbank council report said the council had received more than 30 complaints from residents.
“Residents have indicated the odour from the landfill is significant and are personally recording the date and times of odour occurrences,” the report said.
The council called for a buffer zone of 1500 metres within the perimeter of the proposed landfill site from existing and future buildings. A 500-metre buffer is currently proposed.
A spokesman for community group Stop The Tip said Brimbank council’s objection set an important precedent for Melton.
“Brimbank council chose to side with the community,” the spokesman said. “Melton council should also stand up for residents and reject the Boral tip expansion application.”
Stop The Tip will hold a rally at Melton Civic Centre at 6pm today.
BEN CAMERON
