The results from community engagement, facilitated by Auckland Council’s Waste Solutions, show that Warkworth and Wellsford locals are keen to see services developed that make it easy for them to do the right thing with their waste.
In October 2018, a nine-month extension was given to Northland Waste to continue operation of two transfer stations sites located at Lawrie Road in Warkworth and Rustybrook Road, Wellsford, prior to remediation works starting in July 2019.
Feedback to better understand the challenges and opportunities for waste services in the area came in from 24 individuals and local community groups, representing residents, ratepayers, mana whenua, environmental organisations, and local business during October and November 2018.
“Some great ideas were put forward during the workshop sessions. The community emphasised the importance of providing uninterrupted waste services. They want facilities that allow for a greater focus on resource recovery and recycling materials, including e-waste. People were also eager to see the development of green waste and composting services,” says Parul Sood, Programme Director Waste Solutions.
The community asked for a greater focus on public education – raising awareness about how to minimise waste and divert materials from landfill – and to have greater transparency about what happens to recyclable materials. A number of people would like to see a Community Recycling Centre established, like the one that currently operates in Helensville. Neighbours voiced their concerns about noise levels at Lawrie Road and sought assurances that effective pest management plans would be in place at both sites.
“The community was keen to ensure that services remain cost-effective and affordable for residents and businesses,” says Parul.
In terms of the community’s long-term vision for waste services, people were also supportive of a Zero Waste Learning Centre being established, along the same lines as the one at Waitākere Refuse and Recycling Centre, to enhance community education initiatives.
“We are now working to set up interim waste and resource recovery services to operate while the sites are undergoing remediation, which will take around two years. We’re excited about the new opportunities and ideas and are looking forward to working with the community to develop a facility that provides a comprehensive service and supports Auckland’s vision to send zero waste to landfill by 2040,” says Parul.
The Request for Proposal for interim services was launched on Friday 11 January 2019 with strong interest from local service providers and community groups. The closing date for submissions is 11 February 2019. A robust vetting process will be undertaken, followed by contract negotiations with the successful applicant so that services will be in place from July 2019.
