The Parkes Shire Council has taken a formal stance against the proposed waste incinerator intended to burn 700,000 tonnes of Sydney’s red-bin rubbish annually. This decision came after the council led by Mayor Neil Westcott unanimously voted to oppose the facility at a council meeting. The site for this controversial incinerator is located near the largest town in the Parkes Shire, raising concerns among local leaders about potential environmental and health impacts.

The proposal had garnered significant attention, as it involved utilizing government-owned land for a waste-to-energy plant, which would have operated on a large scale. Council members expressed their concerns during discussions, highlighting a collective apprehension about the environmental implications of burning such vast quantities of waste. The council has also called for an assessment of the project by the NSW Independent Planning Commission before moving forward, seeking greater scrutiny and evaluation of the facility’s impact on the community and environment.

This obstacle represents a critical turning point in the planning process for waste management in the region. The Parkes Shire’s unanimous objection not only reflects local concerns but also sets a precedent for future discussions regarding waste management practices. As cities grapple with mounting waste and seeking innovative disposal methods, the council's decision reinforces the importance of community voices in environmental planning and underscores the need for sustainable waste management solutions as alternatives to incineration are explored.