Following Gunnedah Shire Council's closure of waste management facilities for residential services on Monday, the NSW Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has issued updated advice for regional NSW residents without a council kerbside waste collection or access to a Mobile Collection Service.
For these people, leaving home to take waste to landfill is now considered a reasonable excuse.
Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said he was pleased the NSW EPA had listened to concerns of rural residents and acted quickly to rectify the situation.
"The evolving COVID-19 situation has meant decisions often have to be made quickly and these might not always reflect the reality of the situation on the ground," Cr Chaffey said.
"Common sense has prevailed and I am glad these essential waste services will continue for those residents without a kerbside collection.
"Waste management facilities across the Shire are now accessible for essential waste services for residents who do not have a Council collection and essential commercial and trade services. All visitors are required to check in with a QR code and must wear a mask at all times.
