Mitchell Shire Council is supporting Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria in its efforts at have an industrial-sized waste dump at Newbridge Estate in Wallan cleared.
EPA is aware of the concerns of local residents and has issued a clean up notice to the property owner that requires the debris to be removed by 16 March and taken to a facility licensed to receive this kind of waste.
The approach to have the dumper pay has been supported by Council and will support prosecution if the order to clean up is ignored.
Council has also expressed concerns about possible health and fire risks. With the recent rain and changing weather conditions, fire still poses a risk. Such is Council’s concern a Fire Prevention Notice was issued to create a 100-metre fire break.
Council has also expressed dismay at the increased level of dumping across the shire, with investigations finding much of the dumped materials have come outside the shire.
Council receives a large number of requests in relation to illegal dumping with thousands of dollars spent on clearing materials – a cost our community has to cover.
Dumped materials can also pose health and environmental risks across the community and the natural environment.
The matter is ongoing, and EPA is in contact with the duty holder who has a responsibility to ensure they are compliant with all the regulations. EPA remains vigilant and ready to enforce further regulatory action, in line with its Compliance and Enforcement Policy – if required.
