The Boggabri waste facility has been temporarily closed due to suspected asbestos-containing materials being dumped at the service, possibly over the weekend.

Earlier this week, Narrabri Shire Council identified that a contamination issue was being investigated and in a later update said the suspected material had been successfully isolated, ensuring there is no risk to public safety.

Council’s waste manager, in collaboration with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), has erected signage and fencing and initiated an investigation to ascertain the extent and nature of the contamination.

A HAZMAT team completed their containment works on Tuesday evening, ensuring that the site was safe for the EPA to commence their investigation. The timeframe for resolving this situation is evolving and updates will be communicated as soon as possible.

Residents of Boggabri are advised that although the asbestos has been contained and does not pose an immediate risk, the site is closed to the public and to refrain from entering for safety reasons during the investigation.

Alternative waste disposal options have been provided, including a temporary general waste facility on Tip Road for Boggabri residents, and the Baan Baa facility on the Kamilaroi Highway for residential bulk waste disposal. Kerbside collections will continue as scheduled.

For any enquiries, particularly those related to the classification of small residential waste, residents are advised to contact council’s customer service team on 02 6799 6866.

Alternatively, details are available on the rubbish and recycling section of council’s website.

Council has expressed its appreciation for the community’s patience and cooperation during this period, emphasising the council’s commitment to reopening the waste facility while prioritising the health and safety of all community members.

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