https://www.xxzza1.com
20.8 C
Newcastle

Cessnock council counts cost of illegal dumping

SHARE

The removal of 18.54 tonnes of waste, 52 tyres and several abandoned vehicles has come with a hefty price tag for Cessnock City Council.

The organisation recently completed a $143,000 illegal dumping clean-up project in the Crown Lands reserve near the Cessnock Waste Management Centre.

But, it was the elimination of the unwanted items, which alone cost $88,000.

Then, to prevent ongoing vehicle access to the site, employees installed fencing.

That added another $55,000 to the tally.

Ironically, the new fencing has since been damaged.

Cessnock City mayor Jay Suvaal admitted illegal dumping was an ongoing issue across the Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA).

“There is absolutely no excuse for it to happen – and should always be reported,” he said.

“I can assure people that the fines are far worse than the fees at the Cessnock Waste Management Centre.

“Illegal dumping clean-up comes at a significant cost and, unfortunately, the majority of people are paying the price for the behaviour of a few.”

Cr Suvaal said council provided four waste vouchers to all residential properties that receive a domestic waste service.

“These can be used at the Cessnock Waste Management Centre to assist with any disposal,” he explained.

“These vouchers are issued with rates notices sent to property owners each July.

“So, if you’re renting and don’t receive these vouchers, I suggest you contact your real estate agent.”

The recent project was made possible, thanks to funding from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) via its Illegal Dumping, Clean-up and Prevention Grant Program.

Council also worked closely with Crown Lands to undertake the site clean-up.

You can report illegal dumping online at www.ridonline.epa.nsw.gov.au or by phoning 131 555.

Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.

More Stories

Newcastle Weekly

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Subscribe to Newcastle Weekly. News, Community, Lifestyle, Property delivered direct to your inbox! 100% Local, 100% Free.

You have Successfully Subscribed!