Instructional signage, colour-coding and sealed roads are expected to improve the overall experience for residents attempting to “do the right thing” in Maitland.
This week the LGA’s waste management facility reopened after some upgrades designed to improve the circular economy capabilities of Maitland.
It’s the first phase of a major project.
The Maitland Resource Recovery Facility (MRRF) – previously named the Mount Vincent Road Waste Management Centre – will undergo a series of significant upgrades over four stages in the coming years.
The upgrades signal a new focus with council aiming to bolster resource recovery rates and deepen community understanding of responsible waste management.
Maitland City Council’s manager environment and sustainability Catherine Pepper said the latest upgrade would hopefully improve both the experience and accuracy of recycling in the region.
“Our primary focus for stage one is improving the user experience, so customers using the site find it easy to get around and can more easily separate recyclable items out from mixed loads,” she said.
“In 2020, an audit of waste materials being disposed of at the site identified that there were a number of quick wins we could make to improve separation of recyclables brought by residents to the site, and therefore reduce the amount of recyclable material going to the tip face.
“Until now we’ve been landfilling 76% of the material customers drop off at the site, and we know we can do better.
“This has been a driving force behind stage one, as well as improving general user experience and addressing weather related closures.
“New sealed roads mean an improved driving experience, while adding a mixed waste adverse weather drop off bay provides safe access for 2WD vehicles during slippery weather and can be used for some wind events.
“In the past, high winds have made it difficult for customers to drop off mixed waste – the adverse weather bay lessens that likelihood and will mean we’ll be able to remain open more often throughout the year.”
Stage one works at the waste facility also include improved wayfinding and instructional signage, with colour coded, designated bays for different materials.
Improved traffic flow will make it easier for vehicles to find their way and involve less reversing of trailers.
Council is also expanding the range of items available for free disposal.
In addition to metals, cardboard and problem waste, visitors can now drop off household quantities of polystyrene and textiles for free.
Timber will also be accepted with a reduced gate fee.
The next stage of the project will kick off in early 2024, focusing on improving entry to the site.
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