New landfill needs a hand

MEMBERS are being sought for a Community Engagement Group to help with the development of a new landfill in Casey.
SBI Cranbourne Quarries has called for nominations of local residents and businesses to represent the community on proposed developments to its Ballarto Road quarry site in Cranbourne South.
The company is planning to stop quarrying on the site and establish a landfill for building rubble and non-recyclable packaging.
SBI managing director Paul Williamson said the landfill was required to service the local solid inert waste market.
“We understand that this is an important project for the community, so we are establishing a Community Engagement Group to help us speak with our community about the proposal,” he said.
Solid inert waste is primarily generated by industry and the construction and demolition sectors, and consists mainly of non-hazardous waste from factories, offices, warehouses and construction sites.
Mr Williamson said no food, green waste or liquids would be accepted at the site and stringent environmental controls would be in place to control noise and dust.
Mr Williamson said there were a lot of positives for the community in the proposal including no more blasting at the quarry and dramatically fewer truck movements than today.
“At present, we can have up to 600 truck movements in and out of the quarry on a busy day, but as an inert landfill, this figure will drop significantly to about 140 a day,” he said.
“After eight years, when the landfill is full, an area the size of seven football ovals will be gifted to the community as parkland with our proposal including a wetland, walking paths and playground.
“The remaining area would be developed for quality housing.”
The formation of a Community Engagement Group is an SBI initiative and is independent of community consultation requirements set by the City of Casey and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria.
SBI is calling for community members, representatives of the business community and people from environmental groups to nominate.
The CFA, EPA and the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne will also be invited to nominate a representative.
People interested in nominating for the SBI Community Engagement Group can visit www.sbiinertlandfill.com.au for further information.
Applications close on 27 May.