URGENT UPDATE: The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has officially rejected Veolia’s application to construct a new toxic-waste cell at the controversial landfill in Taylors Road, Lyndhurst. This decision, announced earlier today, stems from serious concerns regarding potential violations of toxic waste levels at the site.
In a statement, an EPA spokesperson highlighted that construction of Cell 21 could result in Veolia breaching its operating license, which limits reportable priority waste to no more than 35 percent of total waste deposited. “Discussions with the company about licensing issues are ongoing,” the spokesperson stated. “EPA will not consider further applications for cell construction until these are resolved.”
The situation is critical for local residents and workers, as the Greater Dandenong Council and community advocates have intensified calls for the landfill’s closure due to public health risks. These concerns have escalated following a series of EPA orders and fines for breaches at the Lyndhurst site throughout 2023 and 2024, including issues related to leachate, dust, and landfill gas.
Opponents argue that Cell 21 is essential for extending the lifespan of Victoria’s only landfill licensed for Category B hazardous waste. “The Taylors Road Resource Recovery Precinct is a vital part of Victoria’s waste management system,” Veolia officials stated, emphasizing the necessity of the cell for disposing of contaminated materials until other options are available.
At a community meeting last year, Veolia representatives indicated that it would take approximately six years to fill Cell 21, contingent on market demand. However, the Victorian government has expressed concerns over the landfill’s longevity, as a previous Labor State Government had promised to close the site by 2020.
A spokesperson for the Victorian government reiterated the importance of existing facilities operating within their strict permissions to protect the community. “The Victorian Recycling Infrastructure Plan sets out the direction for our state’s residual waste infrastructure, including constraints for processing higher-risk hazardous waste,” they stated.
As the situation develops, Greater Dandenong’s Executive Director, Sanjay Manivasagasivam, affirmed the council’s commitment to seeing the landfill closed “as soon as possible.” He added that should Veolia submit a new application for Cell 21, the council would review it and respond accordingly.
With the EPA’s firm stance against the toxic-waste cell, the future of the Taylors Road landfill remains uncertain. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, and community groups are poised to continue advocating for public health and environmental safety in the face of these ongoing discussions.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the implications for local health and safety are profound and immediate.
