Residents in Western Australia's Wheatbelt say they are disappointed a landfill — largely set to hold waste from the Perth metropolitan area — has moved a step closer to approval.

Alkina Holdings is developing the site at St Ronans, between York and Perth, with capacity to accept up to 250,000 tonnes of solid waste a year.

The project was first mooted by a different company more than a decade ago. 

In May last year, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) recommended the project be given conditional approval, however 135 objections were lodged during the advertising period. 

WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby has now reviewed those appeals, dismissing 53 as invalid but accepting others, and conceding that stronger environmental regulations needed to be put in place for the project.

Strong community objections

Objections from the shire, local residents and business owners were addressed in a 68-page Appeals Committee Report released this week.

The minister said he was satisfied that the landfill proposal could move ahead with additional conditions.

Concerns surrounding risks to groundwater and nearby Mundaring Weir, biosecurity, and fire risks were dismissed in the report, with the minister outlining that he believed the proponent and the EPA had adequately addressed the issues. 

The minister has imposed new conditions on the developer, including tree planting and the control of feral pigs.

Shire 'disappointed' by panel

York Shire chief executive Chris Linnell said shire staff and councillors were disappointed by the decision of the appeals panel.

"While we acknowledge the outcome, it is important to note that this is not the final stage of the process," he said.

"As highlighted by the appeals committee, there are significant considerations that fall beyond the scope of this review.

"The shire remains committed to opposing this proposal and will continue to work with all stakeholders to advocate for a final outcome that serves the best interests of the York community. 

"The decision-making process is ongoing, and we will pursue a resolution that reflects the values and concerns of our residents."

A government spokesperson said determination of the appeal did not equate to ministerial approval for this project.

“In determining the appeal, the minister was required to consider matters that fit within the scope of the EPA’s remit," they said.

"Issues around planning and future needs in relation to waste infrastructure sits outside of the EPA.

"The appeals raised several matters that were beyond the EPA's scope, and the minister will consider them alongside the report when making his final decision on implementation."

Minister Whitby will now consider the EPA's findings and broader concerns falling outside the scope of the EPA, and whether to grant final environmental approval under Section 45 of the Environmental Protection Act.