Gosnells Residents Fume Over Verge Waste Collection Delays Amid Weather Concerns
Residents in the City of Gosnells have been instructed to take their uncollected verge waste off the kerb and secure it on their properties ahead of anticipated stormy weather linked to ex-tropical cyclone Narelle. This request comes as the city grapples with significant delays in its waste collection services, prompting widespread anger among the local community.
City's Response and Community Backlash
The City of Gosnells posted on Facebook last week, apologising for the inconvenience caused by verge collection delays in some suburbs due to recent wet weather. The city cited safety reasons for asking residents to move waste items back onto their properties. However, this directive has been met with fierce criticism from residents who claim collection delays have been a persistent issue for years.
One resident commented, "An absolute balls up again as it is every year. Obviously no lessons have been learned from last year’s calamity." Another added, "Really disappointing after the problems last year. Might be time to find a new solution."
Specific Delays and Proposed Solutions
Residents in Thornlie and Huntingdale were originally scheduled to have their waste collected by the end of March, but some reports indicate these dates have now been pushed back to April. In response to the delays, community members on social media have suggested various solutions, including issuing tip passes, organising discounted or free skip bins, and implementing on-demand valet verge collections—a service already operating in neighbouring areas like Canning and Melville, with plans to start soon in East Fremantle.
Official Statements and Long-Term Plans
City of Gosnells Chief Executive Officer Ian Cowie explained that the city is attempting to mitigate delays by organising additional collection days on Saturdays in the short term. He stated, "Collections are being programmed to also include Saturdays in the coming weeks, where possible, and the city’s timetable for collections has been pushed back."
For the long term, Mr Cowie highlighted plans to develop a new recycling centre that would allow residents to drop off waste throughout the year. However, he noted that the approval process for this centre has taken longer than expected. Unlike many local governments, Gosnells does not limit the volume of waste residents can put out for verge collections, which, while beneficial, can lead to larger amounts of waste that take longer to clear.
Challenges and Safety Concerns
Mr Cowie attributed the delays to a significantly increased volume of waste, more contamination, and breakdowns in collection equipment. He also mentioned that the city cannot hire more contractors due to a limited number available and their lack of spare capacity. Some residents have raised safety concerns, warning that leaving waste on the verge could pose a fire hazard, especially with approaching storms. Mr Cowie advised residents to follow guidance from emergency services and secure items where possible.
Residents are encouraged to check the City of Gosnells website for updated verge waste collection dates as the situation evolves.
