More than two months after a public meeting in Howlong, JRPP chairman Gordon Kirkby delivered the news that many in the town feared.

The Howlong Community Committee, led by chairman Stuart Sizer, had been staunch in its opposition of the compost facility.

Mr Kirkby said the JRPP didn’t reach the decision lightly but was adamant it was the right call despite opposition from Howlong residents over the proposed site’s proximity to the town.

“The panel acknowledges the complexity of the issues and has taken time and care in its deliberations, including a follow-up meeting with the Howlong Community Committee,” he said.

“We’ve read every submission received during the exhibition period and listened to the community’s views during the public meeting. We sought additional information on key issues including air quality and health impacts, traffic impacts and the development and growth of Howlong. We’re satisfied that all potential impacts can be mitigated.”

At June’s public meeting, Cleanaway project manager Mathew Kiervan said the company had attempted to engage with the community on its key concerns including odour and increased traffic.

The Howlong-Goombargana Road, where the tip site is located, will be widened to accommodate the additional traffic generated.

Albury Council recently made an offer to locate the compost facility within its waste management centre.

Mr Sizer said in April that the HCC had raised $30,000 to fight the proposal. Signs bearing “No pong for Howlong”, “Compost yes, in town no” and “No consultation, no planning, that’s rubbish” have been up in the town.

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