Following extensive consideration including two extended community consultation periods, EPA Victoria has granted a Development Licence (DL) to Recycal Pty Ltd at its Heatherdale Rd, Ringwood facility.
The DL allows, under strict conditions, Recycal to expand its existing metal recycling activities to accept new waste types and store up to 3,000 tonnes of waste at the site at any one time. Under the licence, the facility can recycle more types of waste including electronic waste (e-waste), metals, end of life vehicles, waste oils and residues from industrial waste treatment.
EPA has determined the proposal meets the requirements of the General Environmental Duty (GED) under the Environment Protection Act, will contribute towards Victorian's Circular Economy drive in a safe and responsible manner and shows that environmental risks associated with the facility's operations will be minimised.
Conditions have been set to ensure the facility's design and operation will minimise risks to human health and the environment.
EPA considered concerns raised in the 220 community submissions received over the two consultation periods. Objections focused on potential noise, fire and stormwater impacts and the Applicant's track record and fit and proper person status.
EPA's assessment found that with the adoption of strict DL conditions, the risks to human health and the environment from the proposed activity are low and acceptable.
Following completion of the Development Licence activities, including proof of performance commissioning of the expanded proposal, Recycal will need to apply for and obtain an EPA Operating Licence to continue to operate at the expanded scale.
