A plastics recycling facility proposed for Moss Vale, NSW, has been rejected by the Independent Planning Commission NSW (IPCN). The decision followed concerns about air pollution, fire risks, and public health impacts.
The project, planned by Plasrefine Recycling Pty Ltd, aimed to process 48,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year. However, opposition from local residents, government agencies, and environmental experts led to its refusal.
What the Proposal Involved
Plasrefine Recycling Pty Ltd applied for a State Significant Development (SSD-10443) to establish a plastics recycling facility at Lot 1, 74px Moss Vale Road, Moss Vale. The facility was meant to convert waste plastics into reusable products, helping to reduce landfill waste and promote sustainable recycling.
Although the site was zoned for industrial use, concerns arose due to its proximity to homes and businesses.
The NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) assessed the proposal. However, because of public opposition and regulatory concerns, the case was sent to the Independent Planning Commission NSW (IPCN).
Key Features of the Proposed Facility
The facility was designed to:
- Process 48,000 tonnes of plastic waste per year
- Use thermal treatment technology to convert plastics into reusable materials
- Operate within an industrial zone with upgraded infrastructure
- Create local job opportunities in waste management and recycling
While the project aimed to support sustainability, it raised concerns about safety, pollution, and site suitability.
Why the Proposal Was Rejected
On 24 January 2024, the IPCN refused the application after identifying several major issues.
1. Air Pollution and Health Risks
One key concern was air quality. The facility’s thermal processing of plastics could release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, which are harmful to human health.
- NSW Health and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) found that air quality modelling lacked certainty.
- The closest homes were 300–400 metres away, meaning residents could be affected by odour and air pollution.
- The IPCN determined that the proposed pollution controls were inadequate and did not guarantee safe air quality.
2. Fire Hazards and Safety Issues
Recycling facilities that store large amounts of plastic waste present a high fire risk. The IPCN found that fire safety measures were not detailed enough.
- Stored plastic waste increases the risk of uncontrolled fires, which can release toxic smoke.
- The fire management plan lacked clear emergency response strategies.
- Since the site was near homes and businesses, a fire could create serious health and safety risks.
3. Conflict With Surrounding Land Uses
Although the site was in an industrial zone, the IPCN determined that the facility would not be compatible with nearby land uses.
- The Wingecarribee Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2010 requires developments to prevent conflicts with other land uses.
- The proposal did not outline how it would minimize issues with surrounding properties.
- Since the site was close to residential areas, the IPCN found that alternative locations should have been explored.
4. Strong Community Opposition
The project faced significant public opposition, including objections from residents, local businesses, and environmental groups.
- More than 50 individual objections were submitted, automatically triggering an IPCN review under Section 4.5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
- Residents were concerned about air pollution, odour, noise, and effects on local businesses.
- Many felt that community consultation had been inadequate, leaving key concerns unaddressed.
5. Poor Justification for Site Selection
The IPCN also found that the developer had not fully justified why this site was chosen.
- Alternative locations with greater distance from residential areas were not properly considered.
- Due to environmental risks, the IPCN determined that a more suitable site should have been explored.
What This Decision Means for Future Developments
The rejection of the Moss Vale Plastics Recycling Facility has wider implications for future waste management and industrial developments in NSW.
1. Stricter Regulations for Waste Facilities
New proposals for plastics recycling plants and waste-processing facilities will now face closer scrutiny.
- Developers must prove that emissions and pollution risks are fully managed.
- Future projects will need stronger fire safety plans to protect public health.
2. More Focus on Community Engagement
The case highlights the importance of early consultation with local communities.
- Developers must engage residents and businesses before submitting applications.
- Addressing air quality, noise, and safety concerns early will be essential for gaining approval.
3. Public Health and Environmental Safety Take Priority
The IPCN’s decision shows that public health and environmental risks outweigh economic benefits.
- Waste facilities must be built farther from homes and businesses.
- Future developments must meet strict pollution control standards to avoid harming nearby residents.
Conclusion
The Moss Vale Plastics Recycling Facility has been refused by the Independent Planning Commission NSW. The main reasons were air pollution risks, fire hazards, and conflicts with nearby land uses. Although the facility aimed to support plastic recycling, its location and environmental concerns led to its rejection.
This decision sets a key precedent for similar industrial developments. It highlights the need for strong environmental planning, fire safety measures, and meaningful community consultation.
For more details, search application number SSD-10443 on the NSW Planning Portal or the Independent Planning Commission NSW website.
