Geelong fast-tracks world-class recycling centre

THE existing Geelong Resource Recovery Centre and Transfer Station (GRRC) will be transformed into a state-of-the-art facility after falling into a state of disrepair.

The Douro Street station was closed earlier this year until further notice, with the city citing safety concerns and structural issues as the main reasons.

Further consideration and expert analysis determined the best course of action is to invest in a new facility.

Announced by the City of Greater Geelong, the decision to build a new facility is one that has been brought forward, with funding already allocated in the city’s budget.

The council’s environment and circular economy portfolio chair Cr Elise Wilkinson said all options had been considered, with the demolition of the former GRRC making the most sense.

“We didn’t want to see short-term fixes that would be costly and create uncertainty for the community.

“This is about doing this work and getting it right, ensuring that we have the capabilities for recycling and resource recovery that follow the best international practices as our region grows.”

The original recovery station was built in the 1970s, with fixes to the current structure determined to be more costly and short-term in nature.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the former Douro Street facility was never purpose-built as a recycling centre.

“It’s clear that over the past 50 years, construction, recycling and resource recovery have come a long way.

“While plans were already underway for a new centre to replace the Douro Street facility, as it reached the end of its life, these plans can now be brought forward to build the world-class facility that Greater Geelong deserves.

“This is a big project, and it will take time, but we know it’s absolutely going to be worth it when the new GRRC opens.”

While the new build takes place over the coming years, a temporary site will open from early September.

The pop-up site will accept cardboard, polystyrene, e-waste, gas bottles and car and truck batteries.

The location and opening date of the temporary facility will be announced closer to its anticipated opening later this year.