Ipswich residents may soon experience relief from persistent odour issues that have affected the Brookwater area for the past two years.
Read: Ipswich Residents Near Swanbank Industrial Area Asked to Report Odour Issues
NuGrow, a local recycling company, has been ordered by the Planning and Environment Court to implement significant changes to its waste processing operations.
The court’s decision comes after prolonged discussions between NuGrow, environmental regulators, and community representatives. The ruling outlines a comprehensive four-year plan aimed at addressing odour concerns while maintaining the facility’s important role in waste management.
Under the court order, NuGrow must complete several stages of improvements. Within the first month, the company is required to implement immediate odour reduction measures, including the use of chemicals to neutralise smells from liquid waste tanks and improved monitoring of composting conditions. They must also apply for necessary approvals to construct an engineered membrane system for containing odorous materials.
Over the next two years, NuGrow is tasked with installing a state-of-the-art enclosed composting system designed to minimise odour emissions. The entire upgrade process must be completed within four years to ensure compliance with strict regulations for processing waste near residential areas.
The Environment Department has stated that these measures are designed to provide the quickest possible relief for affected residents while allowing for the development of long-term solutions.
Brad Wirth, executive director for industry development and South East compliance at the Environment Department, commented on the decision. He acknowledged that while the process had been lengthy, the department views the court ruling as a positive step.
“The stronger composting regulations that were introduced last month gave us the extra ammunition we needed to be able to secure this outcome, putting an end to months of litigation which had no guarantee of delivering this same level of benefit to community, or within these same timeframes, had it gone to a full hearing in the Court,” Mr Wirth stated.
“This is good progress but we aren’t done yet, and we will continue to pursue opportunities to improve the Ipswich community’s experience with local waste operators.”
Read: New Regulations Target Odour Issues at Swanbank and New Chum
Local residents are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of these upgrades. The Brookwater community will likely see gradual improvements in air quality as NuGrow implements the required changes over the coming months and years.
Published 26-September-2024
