A temporary free-to-use waste bin at the Grove Arm on Queen Charlotte Drive will be removed and operating hours at the Havelock Transfer Station adjusted to service any increased demand.

Council’s Infrastructure and Community Facilities Committee approved the temporary change today.

This follows community feedback about the suitability of the current site for a facility of this type as well as concerns about the accessibility of the current bin for the contractor and health and safety reasons when exchanging the bin.

Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas said, as part of the waste management and minimisation services provided by Council, it was agreed the Grove Arm would have a Remote Transfer Station (RTS).

“The current bin was always an interim measure while we found a more permanent solution.

“We have met with members of the local community who live nearby and concluded that the current bin is not suitable given its proximity to the water nor is this location near the jetty preferred in the longer term. There is a preference for extended operating hours at the Havelock Transfer Station, and we are happy to support that.

“This will be a temporary change over the Christmas period and will help us capture data to see if this is a viable permanent solution for this community and Council. It is the best option at present with no additional costs to the ratepayer and we can then confirm in the new year options for a permanent change,” Mr Lucas said.

Mr Lucas said this will give staff time to complete a full consultation on the changes.

The public also have access to the Ohingaroa Quarry Remote Transfer Station which is available 24 hours a day.

This will go to full Council for ratification in December.

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