Residents in Whanganui’s rural outskirts are up in arms over the impending introduction of the city’s kerbside recycling service. Led by Dickens Lane resident Bill Simmons, a group of 39 residents have petitioned the council to keep the service out of their area, citing concerns about safety, environmental impact, and the preservation of their rural lifestyle.
Simmons, a staunch advocate for maintaining the rural character of his neighborhood, expressed his opposition to the kerbside recycling service, arguing that the area’s narrow roads, lack of footpaths, and reliance on tank water make it unsuitable for such urban amenities. He raised concerns about the potential hazards posed by loose plastic items blowing around and endangering livestock in the area.
The Whanganui District Council, however, is moving forward with its plans to roll out the kerbside recycling service, which is set to begin on July 1. Council chief executive David Langford confirmed that the service would extend to Simmons’ area, despite his objections. Langford acknowledged Simmons’ concerns and expressed a willingness to discuss the matter further in an effort to find a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.
The introduction of the kerbside recycling service is part of the Government’s mandate to make recycling collection available to all urban households by 2027. While the council’s Long-Term Plan outlines the expansion of the service to include rural properties in the future, Simmons and his fellow residents are adamant about preserving the rural lifestyle they cherish.
Simmons emphasized that the residents in his area do not want services beyond water supply and are determined to maintain the unique character of their community. He criticized the council for not adequately differentiating between urban and rural zones and called the introduction of the kerbside service unnecessary and potentially detrimental to their way of life.
As the debate continues, public hearings on Whanganui’s Long-Term Plan are scheduled to take place from May 14-16, providing an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns and opinions on the matter. Simmons and his neighbors are prepared to fight to keep their rural area free from what they perceive as unwanted urban encroachment.
In the midst of this clash between urban convenience and rural tradition, the fate of Whanganui’s kerbside recycling service hangs in the balance. Will the council heed the concerns of residents like Bill Simmons and preserve the rural character of the outskirts, or will the push for sustainability and waste reduction prevail? Only time will tell as the community grapples with this contentious issue.