As public opposition builds over a proposed waste dump in Tasmania’s south-east, industry is beginning to express interest in using the site.
It comes as the proponent continues to defend the controversial project near Dunalley.
Southern Waste Services’s John Brennan says the site will cater for the growing problem of so-called legacy waste.
“Legacy waste is waste that is sitting in the backyard of industry and business right now,” he said.
Hydro Tasmania has revealed it will consider using the site, along with the Australian Antarctic Division which currently ships low level contaminated soil from the continent.
Environmentalists want a new round of public consultation.
But Peter Skillern from Environment Tasmania says he is still concerned.
“There could be some leaching into the Carlton River.”
The Environment Minister Brian Wightman says the Environment Protection Authority will need to approve any material for disposal.
The Greens’ Tim Morris told Parliament the public was concerned over a lack of consultation.
He wants the Environment Minister Brian Wightman to act.
“Will you request the Environment Protection Authority to have another round of consultation?”
Mr Wightman would not say if there would be but says he is confident in the authority’s role.
“Each material proposed for disposal at the site will require specific prior approval from the EPA director,” the minister said.
The authority’s Alec Schaap says permits may be varied, if new issues arise from discussions between the company and concerned residents.
