WITH growth set to double in the next 10 years, the new Western Resource Recovery Centre location is closer to being confirmed thanks to community consultation creating a shortlist of potential sites.
Previously known as transfer stations or tips, the current Rosewood Recycling and Refuse Centre is more than three decades old and needs to be replaced to meet the growth of the Ipswich region.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said one of the shortlisted sites made the list thanks to a push from locals who wanted to see the resource recovery centre stay where it is.
“As the western areas of Ipswich continue to grow, a new facility is needed to enhance our waste management capabilities,” Cr Harding said.
“Council has conducted extensive community consultation on the potential site.
“The community told us they wanted to play a crucial role in how their community is shaped, and one of the shortlisted sites was a suggestion advocated by locals.
“They told us they would rather see the existing Rosewood Recycling and Refuse Centre upgraded rather than a new site found if possible.”
The shortlisted sites for the Western Resource Recovery Centre are 94 and 95 Oakleigh Colliery Rd, Rosewood (currently the Rosewood Recycling and Refuse Centre), Lot 1 and 2, unnamed road, Mount Marrow (Council-owned land) and 486-516 Ipswich Rosewood Rd, Jeebropilly (privately owned land).
Cr Harding said the list has been years in the making and the insights and unique perspective residents brought to the table had been incorporated by Council into the decision-making process.
“As a result of that feedback, in October 2022, Council endorsed a motion put to the Council Ordinary Meeting, that the site be removed from consideration as a potential site. That site was then removed from the list as we actively listened and responded to the community’s concerns.
“Council continues to honour our pledge to move through this process with the community.”
There will now be two dedicated pop-up sessions at the Rosewood Library on Tuesday, July 30 from 6-8pm and Saturday, August 24, from 9am-midday calling for further feedback.
Feedback can also be provided on the dedicated site shapeyouripswich.com.au/westernrrc for the next five weeks.
