Council archive · source document
Town Planning Report - Other Change Composting Facility · 132005.638.06
Court Appeals & Dispute Resolution
Applications & Assessment
Due Diligence & Compliance
Project Management
General Development Advice
Town Planning Report
Other Change Application
for a
Composting Facility
Noosa Resource Recovery Centre
Adamson Town Planning Pty Ltd
(ACN: 163 798 374 | ABN: 73 163 798 374)
P (07) 5430 6671 F (07) 5430 6677 M 0437 754 420 Mail: PO Box 894, Cooroy QLD 4563
‘Noosa Boardroom’, 28 Eenie Creek Road, Noosaville QLD 4566
Email| [email protected]
See the original
The page text is free to read. Viewing or downloading an original file needs an account.
Log in to see the originalFull text of the other 32 pages
Page 2
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
Document Control
Project: Request for an “other change” to current development approval for a
material change of use for the existing Noosa Waste and Recycling
Facility to provide for a Composting Facility
Applicant: Noosa Council
Project Number: 23026
Reviewed by 14 September 2026 & 23 September 2026
Client:
Status of Report: Final
Date: 23 September 2026
Author:
Shane Adamson (BEngTech, GDURP, MPIA, MQELA)
Town Planning Specialist
Director - Adamson Town Planning Pty Ltd
The information contained in this document is confidential and intended solely for the use of the client
for the purpose for which it has been prepared, and no representation is made or is to be implied as
being made to any third party. Use or copying of this document in whole or in part without the written
permission of Adamson Town Planning Pty Ltd constitutes an infringement of copyright. The intellectual
property contained in this document remains the property of Adamson Town Planning Pty Ltd.
In preparing this report it is assumed that all information and documents provided by the client are
correct and accurate. Where information has been obtained from another source, it is assumed that the
information is accurate where relied upon and is acknowledged accordingly.
This report is presented without the assumption of a duty of care to any other person (other than the
Client). The report may not be relied on by a Third Party. Adamson Town Planning Pty Ltd will not be
liable to a Third Party for any loss, damage, liability, or claim arising out of or incidental to a Third Party
and publishing, using, or relying on the facts, content, opinions, or subject matter contained in this
report.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 2
Page 3
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEVELOPMENT SUMMARY................................................................................................................... 5
1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................. 6
2 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 8
3 APPLICATION BACKGROUND ...................................................................................................... 8
4 SUBJECT SITE ................................................................................................................................. 9
5 APPROVAL BACKGROUND ......................................................................................................... 10
6 DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL......................................................................................................... 12
6.1 COMPOSTING FACILITY ............................................................................................................ 12
6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL RELEVANT ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS ................................................................ 14
6.3 TECHNICAL REPORTS .............................................................................................................. 16
6.3.1 Traffic Impact Assessment ................................................................................................ 16
6.3.2 Odour Impact Assessment ................................................................................................ 17
6.3.3 Flood Impact Assessment ................................................................................................. 18
6.3.4 Stormwater Management Plan .......................................................................................... 18
7 CONSULTATION........................................................................................................................... 19
8 PLANNING ACT 2016 .................................................................................................................. 20
9 STATE POLICY ASSESSMENT ...................................................................................................... 20
9.1 SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND REGIONAL PLAN................................................................................... 20
9.2 STATE PLANNING POLICY 2017 .................................................................................................... 21
9.3 PLANNING REGULATION 2017 ..................................................................................................... 21
10 NOOSA PLAN 2020 ...................................................................................................................... 22
10.1 ZONING AND TABLES OF ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................... 22
10.2 OVERLAY MAPPING AND CODES ................................................................................................... 23
10.2.1 Acid Sulfate Soils Overlay ................................................................................................. 23
10.2.2 Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay ................................................................ 23
10.2.3 Bushfire Hazard Overlay ................................................................................................... 24
10.2.4 Flood Hazard Overlay ........................................................................................................ 25
10.2.5 Landslide Hazard Overlay ................................................................................................. 26
10.3 COMMUNITY FACILITIES ZONE CODE ............................................................................................. 27
10.4 INFRASTRUCTURE ACTIVITIES CODE ............................................................................................... 28
10.5 WORKS CODES .......................................................................................................................... 29
10.5.1 Driveways and Parking Code ............................................................................................ 29
10.5.2 Water Quality and Drainage Code .................................................................................... 30
11 CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL ...................................................................................................... 31
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 3
Page 4
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
12 CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................................... 32
Attachments:
Attachment 1A & 1B Current Development Approval and Approved Plans
Attachment 2 Master Plans - Part and Complete Site
Attachment 3A Proposal Plans by OREZ
Attachment 3B Process Design Strategy by OREZ
Attachment 4 Layout Staging Plans 1-3
Attachment 5 Traffic Impact Assessment by PTT
Attachment 6 Odour Impact Assessment by Katestone
Attachment 7 Flood Hazard Assessment by Covey, dated August 2025
Attachment 8 Interim Stormwater Management Plan by TOPO, Version A
Appendices:
Appendix A: • State Code 1 – Development in a state-controlled road
State Development • State Code 22 – Environmentally Relevant Activities
Assessment
Provisions
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 4
Page 5
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
Development Summary
Development Proposal Alterations and additions to the Noosa
Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) - Utility
Installation with ancillary composting facility.
Subject Land: 561 Eumundi Noosa Road, Doonan
Land Description: Lot 77 on SP298776
Land Area: 321.9 ha, with the approximate area of the
Subject Land: NRRC being 44ha
Regional Plan: South East Queensland Regional Plan 2023 –
Regional Landscape and Rural Production
Area
Planning Scheme: Noosa Plan 2020 (the planning scheme)
Land Zone: • Community Facilities (Utility Installation);
and
• Environmental Management and
Conservation
Local Area Plan: Not Applicable
Overlay Mapping: Within the land the following overlays apply:
• Acid Sulfate Soils – Above 5m AHD to
20m AHD (Area 2), in part;
• Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands –
Area of Biodiversity Significance, in part;
• Bushfire Hazard - High Potential Bushfire
Intensity, Medium Potential Bushfire
Intensity and Potential Impact Buffer, in
part
• Flood Hazard, in part; and
• Landslip Hazard, in part.
Level of Assessment: Code Assessment
Noosa Plan 2020: Most relevant provisions include:
• Community facilities zone code;
• Infrastructure activities code; and
Works Codes, including:
• Driveways and Parking Code; and
• Water Quality and Drainage Code.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 5
Page 6
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
1 Executive Summary
The proposed development seeks to change the current development approval to allow for a
composting facility at the Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC). The composting facility
will be centrally located within the exiting operational area and will provide for the extension
of the existing onsite management of green and other organic waste materials. The existing
onsite mulching of green waste is to be replaced with a more advanced composting process,
which that will also include selected low-medium odour generating food products to provide
a compost that could be used as a soil conditioner off the site.
The land affected by the development is included within the Community Facilities Zone
(annotated Utility Installation). The proposed development will form part of the existing NRRC
and is consistent with the current land zoning being for a utility installation. The proposed
operation of the composting facility is an extension of the existing green waste management
and remains ancillary to operation of the NRRC. No manufacturing of soil conditioners is being
proposed on the site.
The key issues to be considered are summarised below:
• Community need - Council has a responsibility to continuously improve waste and
recycling at the NRRC. The planned improvements to the facility are critical to improve
the efficiency of the current operation and maintain sufficient land for Council to meet
other waste deferral expectations. Waste is to be managed in a sustainable manner
consistent with the needs of the community with the proposed new facility being in
the public interest.
• Environmental impacts - Council must operate the landfill under the Environmental
Authority (EA) permit (EPPR01855314) for the site. The addition of a composting facility
will include another Environmentally Relevant Activity, ERA53 for composting. Council
has a general environmental duty and is obligated under the Environmental Protection
Act 1994, to take all reasonable measures to minimise the risk, reduce and prevent
environmental harm. Expansion and improvements to the NRRC are necessary to
achieve compliance with the environmental authority under the Environmental
Protection Act 1994.
• The operation of the existing NRRC, including the proposed new composing facility is
aligned with regional waste plan initiatives to reduce landfill and produce other
sustainable products of value, which is critical given the increasing population growth
in Noosa and the Sunshine Coast Council area towards the north.
• Local government is required to promote and implement waste avoidance, reduction
and resource recovery actions to meet National waste standards, and the proposed
composting facility along with other initiatives forms an important component of the
continuous improvement process at the NRRC.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 6
Page 7
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
• There is an identified community, economic and planning need for proposed
improvements to the NRRC, with the proposed composting facility being a logical and
practical addition that will result in improved efficiencies and cost savings that will
result in other value adding benefits in the long term.
• The proposed composting facility will be centrally located within the existing
operational footprint of the NRRC and will be properly managed to minimise and
mitigate any potential offsite impacts and will not cause environmental harm.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 7
Page 8
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
2 Introduction
The development application is for an “other change” to the existing development approval
(2005/638) to provide for a composting facility, centrally located within the NRRC site. The
proposed composting facility will replace the existing green waste mulching and management
process onsite.
While a new facility is being established on the land, there is no increase to the existing
development footprint. The scale of operation has increased over time in line with incremental
population growth.
The proposed composing facility itself does not significantly change the existing onsite
operation and will not generate a substantial increase in traffic movements or a significant
increase in the demand for parking. Further, the proposed development will not cause a
significant worsening of existing operational impacts with the proposed development being
well removed from nearby rural residential properties and not expected to cause any
environmental harm off the site.
The location of the proposed composting facility and the nature of facility is a logical and
practical expansion to the existing NRRC organic waste processing, in response to an identified
community need to improve processing and operational efficiencies.
3 Application Background
The site of the composting facility is centrally located within the existing operational area and
does not require the removal of any remanent vegetation and does not substantial change the
existing ground levels. The proposed composting facility is not considered to be a new use,
rather an extension of the existing green waste mulching and processing, along with the
processing of some limited low risk odour generating food products, such as coffee grounds.
No blending no manufacture of soil conditioning is proposed onsite.
Given the application is for an “other change” it is to be assessed in accordance with section
82 of the Planning Act 2016. The relevant provisions that apply as if … the change application
were the original development application, with the changes included, but was made when the
change application was made. Therefore, the “other change” application is to be assessed
against the current Noosa Plan 2020; however, is to be considered in context with the existing
development approval 1.
1 Planning Act 2016, section 82(2)
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 8
Page 9
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
4 Subject Site
The land is located at 561 Eumundi Noosa Road, Doonan and is described as Lot 77 on SP
298776 (Lot 77). The land comprises multiple allotments that collectively form Lot 77 and has
an area of approximately 322 ha. The NRRC operation occupies an area of about 44ha located
to the south west of the larger parcel (refer Figure 1A).
The majority of the land (Lot 77) contains a significant amount of regulated vegetation to the
north and east. The land extends northwards to Hollett Road, eastwards to Walter Hay Drive
and further to Tidswell Road. It also extends towards the south on the southern side of the
unformed Rutch Road and further to the south and abuts Emu Mountain Road.
Existing NRRC operational area
Figure 1A – Aerial Photograph (Noosa Council – Interactive Mapping)
The existing NRRC manages approximately 92,600 tonnes of waste annually. The facility serves
as a pivotal hub for waste management, including diversion, supporting the local community
of Noosa and the Sunshine Coast northern region, as well as the 2.08 million visitors who come
to Noosa each year. A relatively large number of residents and business operators who utilise
the facility are from outside the Noosa area, with the existing facility being located on the
border with the Sunshine Coast Regional Council (refer Figure 1A).
The site currently facilitates the transfer and sorting of various waste streams, promoting
recycling efforts and diverting materials from landfill. It supports activities such as household
and commercial waste recycling and disposal, recycling drop-offs, green waste processing
(mulching), concrete recycling and the collection of hazardous materials, and generally
providing waste management practices. The facility’s operations are integral to maintaining
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 9
Page 10
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
environmental stewardship and fostering a cleaner and more resource efficient community
within the region.
The existing facility provides landfill cells, a resource recovery operational area, including green
waste mulching, customer interface and waste transfer station and weighbridge bridge and a
resource recoverables area. The site also contains the Cleanaway Depot to the northwest and
the “Reviva” recycling shop. The proposed composting facility will be located within the central
operational area (refer Figure 1B).
The land does not adjoin and is well removed from nearby rural residential properties to the
west and southwest. The access and egress to and from Eumundi Noosa Road will remain
unchanged (refer Figure 1A).
General location of the
Composting Facility
Figure 1B – Aerial Photograph of subject land
5 Approval Background
The current development approval for the existing waste and recycling facility was first
approved in 2005 under a development permit for a material change of use for an Expansion
of Special Purpose (Waste Disposal and Recycling Facility) and Ongoing Clearing Purposes
(2005/638). The development approval contains concurrence agency conditions from the
Department of Main Roads (DMR) and the Department of Natural Resources & Mines (DNRM)
as they were known at that time.
A number of recent changes have been made to the development approval as follows:
• Other change (approval No. 132005.638.03), for an expansion to the Resource
Recovery Area (RRA) and including provision for a new HES Basin, dated 15 February
2024; and
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 10
Page 11
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
• Other change (approval No. 132005.638.04), for a new Waste Transfer Station,
expansion of the Cleanaway Depot and new “Reviva Shop”, dated 18 December 2025.
A copy of the current development approval is provided as Attachment 1A. A copy of the
current proposal plans is provided as Attachment 1B. An extract of the updated Master Plans
for the site are provided as Attachment 2 (refer Figure 2).
Figure 2 – Extract of current Master Plan
Under the original development approval, the conditions provided by the Department of
Natural Resources and Mines required an Offset Restoration Plan providing for a minimum of
24 hectares of land within the properties identified in Table 1 (refer Attachment 1A). The
restoration plan provided for 19ha of a remnant “Endangered” regional ecosystem and a
minimum of 5ha of remnant “Not of Concern” regional ecosystem within 20 years of the
commencement of the use, which has now been realised.
The offset area comprises 27 sites having a total land area of 39.1ha, which covers parts of the
20 allotments surrounding the upper sections of Lake Macdonald. It is my understanding that
this offset area is now protected by a Property PMAV lodged with the Department of Natural
Resources. The PMAV will ensure the protection of the environmental offset area in the long
term.
The other changes made to the development approval were for the establishment of the new
HES Basin (Approval No. 132005.638.03) and for the expansion of the Cleanaway Depot
(Approval No. 132005.638.04). These developments required the removal of remnant
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 11
Page 12
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
vegetation and provision for an environmental offset in the form of an Agreed Offset Delivery
Plan (ODP) in accordance with the Environmental Offsets Act 2014.
The applicant has secured land at Lake Flat Road (Lot 4 on RP803972) to provide for the Keysii
Nature Reserve, which is to be rehabilitated in Offset Area Rehabilitation Plan. This forms part
of the current “minor change” application (132005.638.05) yet to be finalised.
This “other change” application makes further changes to the development approval to
provide for another stage of development under the Master Plan for the proposed composting
facility (refer Figure 2).
6 Development Proposal
6.1 Composting Facility
The project involves establishing an aerated in-vessel composting facility at the NRRC. A copy
of the proposal plans, and a copy of the Process Design Strategy are provided as Attachments
3A & 3B.
The applicant is also seeking to update the staging for the various components of the
development in accordance with the new Layout Plans for Stages 1 – 3 (refer Attachment 4),
as follows:
• Layout Plan Stage 1 – The completion and operation of the new HES Basin and upgrade
the RRA Pade area;
• Layout Plan Stage 2 – The construction of the proposed Composting Facility including
the upgrading of the internal roadways and new weighbridge with new gravel
hardstand area; and
• Stage 3 – The construction of the Waste Transfer Station, “Reviva Shop” and expansion
of the Cleanaway Depot.
Existing green waste currently received and mulched on-site will instead be processed into
compost, representing a shift in current processing method. While the proposal will enable
increased intake capacity over time, the controlled composting process (including natural
breakdown and moisture loss) means that final compost outputs will be broadly comparable
to current mulch production volumes.
Importantly, the waste being proposed through the composting facility is the same waste
material that currently being accepted and managed at the NRRC. That is, the composting
facility will provide for another level of processing, which is consistent with the existing utility
installation use. This includes the receival, treatment and or processing of organic green and
food waste products; however, not all food waste will be composted.
It is noted that while food waste is received at the NRRC it is not currently processed onsite. It
is now proposed to also process some low odour food waste products with the composting
facility, therefore adding and increasing the type of organic waste material being processed at
the NRRC.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 12
Page 13
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
The proposed composting facility will provide for an alternative treatment method for organic
waste that will value add by producing a compost media that could be used for blending and
manufacturing of soil conditioners off the site 2. It is not intended to manufacture soil
conditioners, with the composting being an ancillary component of the existing operation and
management of organic waste products already received and therefore does not change the
nature of the existing utility installation use.
Figure 3A – Extract of Site Plan
The Process Design Strategy 3 advises that the proposed system is an enclosed composting
process where organic material is placed inside a contained unit and supplied with air to
support efficient breakdown. Air from the system is captured and treated before release, which
helps control odour and improves processing efficiency. The composting process includes the
following:
• enclosure of the composting unit where material is actively aerated
• air extraction and treatment through a biofilter to manage odour
• a pasteurisation phase (~21 days) to stabilise the material; and
• a covered maturation phase (3–4 weeks) to produce finished compost material.
The composting facility provides for the following processes:
• receives, shreds, and blends green waste, this being the existing green waste material
received at the NRRC
• processes the material in an enclosed, aerated environment to accelerate
decomposition
2 Schedule 1, SC1.1 – Industry thresholds part (19)
3 Process Design Strategy by OREZ – Attachment 3B
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 13
Page 14
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
• produces high-quality compost instead of mulch material
• has been designed to optionally incorporate limited food organics into the process in
the future
• controls odour through enclosed processing and air treatment; and
• stores finished product under cover to minimise leachate and odour emissions.
Figure 3B – Extract of Site Plan – Operational Zones
The estimated volume of organic waste material to be processed is as follows:
• Green Waste – Expected to be about 30,000 tonnes per annum, with an initial intake of
about 25,000 tonnes per annum.
• Food Waste – Expected to be about 2,000 tonnes per annum (excluding very high odour
risk wastes) but could potentially process 4,000 tonnes of food waste a year; however, this
would be low to medium odour food waste sources only, such as coffee grounds.
• Total Waste - Intake capacity of organic waste to be processed is not expected to exceed
30,000 tonnes per annum; however, this may increase as population growth continues over
time.
• Finished Product - Broadly similar tonnage to existing mulch outputs due to organic mass
reduction during the composting process, which will be made available for sale as is
currently the case for the existing mulched green waste material. The final product could
be used for the manufacture of a soil conditioner, which is not intended to occur at the
NRRC.
6.2 Environmental Relevant Activity Requirements
The NRRC operates under Environmental Authority (EA) EPPR01855314 effective from 30th
January 2017. The EA includes the following environmentally relevant activities (ERAs):
• ERA 60 - Waste disposal 1: Operating a facility for disposing of, in a year, the following
quantity of waste mentioned in subsection (1)(a) (a) less than 50,000t
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 14
Page 15
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
• ERA 62 Resource recovery and transfer facility operation:
o 1 operating a facility for receiving and sorting, dismantling, baling or temporarily
storing 1(b) general waste;
o 1 operating a facility for receiving and sorting, dismantling, baling or temporarily
storing 1(c) category 2 regulated waste; and
o 2 operating a facility for receiving and sorting, baling or temporarily storing end-
of-life tyres only; and
• ERA 54 - Mechanical waste reprocessing 2: Operating a facility for receiving and
mechanically reprocessing, in a year, the following quantity of general waste - (c) more
than 10,000t.
The approval for shredding and mulching green waste on site is covered by mechanical waste
reprocessing (ERA54), which includes use of a grinder, crusher, miller, trommel or green waste
shredder. The quantity stipulated in the EA is more than 10,000 tonnes, which is suitable for
the green waste quantity to be processed.
Composting is covered under ERA53, organic material processing, pursuant to Schedule 2 of
the Environmental Protection Regulation 2019. An ERA53 includes composting of more than
200 tonnes of organic material to manufacture soil conditioner, where organic material
includes green waste. Adding composting to the existing operation at the NRRC is a
concurrence ERA, which will require an amendment to the existing EA in accordance with s115
(2) of the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
An ERA53 is not a devolved ERA, therefore the development application is required to be
referred to the State Assessment Referral Agency (SARA). It is expected that SARA will consider
the proposed development and the technical reports provided at the referral stage and impose
conditions with respect to the ERA53. Once the land use is approved, the applicant will make
a subsequent application to amend the current EA. This is provided funding is available for the
proposed composting facility. The EA will be amended before this component of the use
commences.
Collected leachate is returned to the process wherever it can be usefully absorbed, which
recovers moisture and nutrients that would otherwise be lost and reduces the volume
requiring separate management. Where leachate volumes exceed what can be usefully
returned to the process, during high moisture ramp-up periods or where wetter feedstock
streams are introduced, the surplus requires a dedicated storage and treatment pathway 4.
It is noted that the NRRC currently contains a dedicated leachate holding tank as shown on
the Master Plan (refer Figure 2). Further, the site is connected to reticulated sewerage, which
provides a connection for the existing trade waste disposal associated with the current
operation. The design provides for leachate tunnels that are enclosed. A new leachate holding
tank forms part of the proposed development where there is excess leachate that is not able
to be returned to the process. A sucker truck is also to be used to remove excess leachate from
the tunnels.
4 Process Design Strategy, part 2.3, page 11
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 15
Page 16
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
The proposed built form to house the facility is a combination of covered roof structures and
other buildings that have a maximum building height of 8.6m from finished ground level (refer
Attachment 3C).
Figure 3C – Extract of Site Elevations
6.3 Technical Reports
A number of technical reports have been prepared for the application, which are briefly
summarised below. It is noted that a Noise Impact Assessment has not been prepared for the
proposed composting facility. This is because the composting facility replaces the existing
green waste mulching already occurring on the site. Further, the current operation also
includes concrete crushing and other activities including heavy vehicle movements, which are
also significant noise generating sources. Given the isolated location of the NRRC and its
current operation, including some noise generating sources, it is not expected that the new
composting facility would significantly worsen existing noise impacts emanating from the site.
6.3.1 Traffic Impact Assessment
The applicant has engaged Pekol Transport and Traffic who has prepared a Traffic Impact
Assessment (TIA) for the NRRC, including the proposed development (refer Attachment 5).
The TIA includes consideration of the existing operating conditions, the proposed composting
facility, the existing and proposed internal road layout and weighbridge locations, traffic
management within the site, including queuing lengths and any traffic impacts likely to be
generated off the site, as well as any road safety implications.
Based on the assessment undertaken the proposed development is expected to generate a
total of 30 additional trips during the Tuesday and 28 additional trips during the Sunday peak
hours. However, the additional traffic generated by the proposed composting facility does not
warrant mitigation works on the state-controlled road network.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 16
Page 17
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
The traffic expert has made some recommendations about upgrading the current access and
improvements to the internal intersection arrangements to prioritise inbound traffic travelling
to the existing and proposed weighbridges.
No road safety issues are raised with the proposed development. The TIA assessment does
not raise significant traffic impacts with the current operation of the NRRC and including the
proposed operation of composing facility.
6.3.2 Odour Impact Assessment
The odour expert Katestone has considered the proposed composting facility and the current
operation of the NRRC, including the current mulching of green waste, undertaken modelling
and provided an Odour Impact Assessment (refer Attachment 6).
The composting facility will be designed to process 25,000 tonnes per year of green waste
initially, with the flexibility to accommodate growth up to 30,000 tonnes per year within the
built infrastructure. This represents a diversion of the green waste already accepted at the
facility, along with an 8,000-13,000 tonne increase in capacity for green waste processing 5. The
odour considered is from green and food organic waste, during pasteurisation of the
composting product and from leachate.
The odour expert has advised that even with the proposed composting operation, the primary
odour-generating activity at the NRRC will remain consistent with the existing landfill
operation. Odour emissions from the composting operation can be expected to be very
different in character to those of the landfill operations. Such different odours do not have a
cumulative effect to make stronger or more offensive odours. Further, the various odours
simply do not tend to combine or interact in such a way.
The modelling undertaken has demonstrated that the composting facility will have a negligible
odour impact, being highly unlikely to lead to odour impacts at sensitive receptors. The
assessment has identified that there is a greater likelihood of the current landfill operations
contributing to odour impacts, which is consistent with the small number of complaints
received in relation to the landfill operations.
The odour expert advises that the odour impacts have only been predicted in the worst-case
upper bound emissions scenario, consistent with best practice management measures for
controlling odours from landfill, which should be adequate to ensure that impacts are
minimised, if not entirely prevented. The odour expert has concluded that the proposed
composting operation, provided it is well-managed, is highly unlikely to contribute
meaningfully to any odour impacts 6.
5 Odour Impact Assessment, part 2.2, page 3
6 Odour Impact Assessment, part 8, page 20
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 17
Page 18
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
It is also noted the applicant will be required to amend the current Environmental Authority
(EA - EPPR01855314) for the current operation of the NRRC. This will provide for the operation
of the composting facility (ERA53) to meet current environmental standards to prevent any
environmental harm, in terms of noise, odour and water quality management from the existing
operation and the proposed composting facility.
6.3.3 Flood Impact Assessment
An updated Flood Impact Assessment (FIA) dated January 2026 is provided (refer Attachment
7).
The FIA provides flood modelling for the site as whole and shows the proposed composting
facility will not be affected during a 1% AEP event (refer Figure 4). It is my understanding that
minimal earthworks are required for the construction of the proposed composting facility in
the location shown resulting in minimal, if any change to the flood modelling for the site. In
the circumstances, there is no need to update the flood modelling, which has recently been
completed.
The flood modelling has demonstrated the on-site overland flow paths are adequately
conveyed within both the internal and external catchment flow areas. Further, there will be no
actionable nuisance due to the change in peak water level, depth, velocity and hazard on the
surrounding properties for all modelled AEPs 7.
Figure 4 – Extract from Flood Impact Assessment (1% AEP for Stage 2)
6.3.4 Stormwater Management Plan
7 Flood Impact Assessment, Part 4 Conclusion, page 12
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 18
Page 19
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
The applicant has provided an Interim Stormwater Management Plan (ISWMP) prepared by
TOPO for the site as a whole (refer Attachment 8). At this stage, the ISWMP needs to be
considered in context with the currently approved SWMP prepared by Covey (M25-004Rpt,
dated February 2025 (refer condition 15 – Attachment 1A). Further, the completed SWMP will
be provided by TOPO as soon as possible. It is expected that the finalised TOPO SWMP will
replace the current Covey SWMP under the approval.
It is stated by TOPO the objective is to provide an ISWMP for the site, taking into consideration
the current conditions and future works, and identify how runoff will be managed to comply
with the relevant guidelines and licence conditions. The consultant advises that once the layout
for the future works, particularly the development of the northern portion of the site, is
confirmed, hydrologic and hydraulic modelling will be undertaken to size all required drainage
features. The SWMP addresses surface water only and does not include the management of
groundwater or leachate 8.
The stormwater management consultant has made a number of recommendations for the
existing operation across the site and the design of the northern precinct redevelopment:
• assess the catchments within the active filling zones and ensure all disturbed areas are
being directed to an appropriately sized sediment control
• inspect the eastern boundary on the edges of Catchments 12 and 22 and ensure all
runoff has been managed in accordance with the site permit and discharged at an
appropriate location
• implement the recommendations of the TOPO concept design and Covey stormwater
management plan for the upgraded HES basin at SW2
• investigate options for the treatment of runoff from low erosion risk areas in the
northern portion of the NRRC, which is likely to be bioretention systems.
• Ensure all drainage for the NRRC is designed to convey peak flows associated with the
1 in 10 year (10% AEP) event per DETSI 2025, or as required to ensure the necessary
flow rates are conveyed to the HES basin to achieve the annual runoff treatment
percentage necessary.
7 Consultation
While not a requirement under the planning scheme or the Planning Act 2016, the applicant
has previously undertaken consultation with Kabi Kabi Peoples Aboriginal Corporation about
proposed improvements at the NRRC. The proposed use of the site as a utility installation is
consistent with the intended use community infrastructure and is not required to be publicly
notified. Importantly, the proposed development does not extend beyond the existing
operational footprint and does not raise any native title issues.
The proposed composting facility is centrally located within the land and will improve and
complement the existing organic waste management and processing on the site, without
causing significant offsite impacts. In the circumstances, there is no need for additional
community consultation to be undertaken.
8 Stormwater Management Plan, Part 1.1, page 1
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 19
Page 20
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
8 Planning Act 2016
Under the Noosa Plan 2020 (the planning scheme) the proposed use is defined as a Utility
installation which means premises for –
a) a service for supplying or treating water, hydraulic power or gas; or a sewerage, drainage
or stormwater service; or a
b) transport service; or
c) a waste management service; or
d) a maintenance depot, storage depot or other facility for a service stated in paragraphs
(a) to (d).
The proposed composting facility is considered an ancillary component for organic waste
processing as part of the ongoing waste management provided by the NRRC. The composting
material once created could be used by the general public and or sold to other industries as a
soil conditioning material. This remains consistent with how mulched green waste is currently
used/sold to residents and third parties at the NRRC.
The proposed “other change” for the composting facility is to be assessed under section 82 of
the Planning Act 2016 (PA2016) and considered in context with the current development
approval. The relevant provisions that apply are those as if the change application were the
original development application, with the changes included, but made when the change
application is made under section 82(2)(a) of the PA2016. The application is to be assessed
under section 45 of the PA2016 and in accordance with the Development Assessment Rules.
The intent of the reference to assessing and deciding the change application “in the context
of the development approval” is that the proposed change should not be considered in
isolation. Neither is the entirety of the development including the change re-assessed. Instead,
it is intended the change be assessed with reference to the context of the development
approval already existing9.
9 State Policy Assessment
9.1 South East Queensland Regional Plan
Under part 2.2 of the planning scheme, the planning minister has identified that the Noosa
Plan 2020 appropriately advances the South East Queensland Regional Plan 2017 (SEQRP) as
it applies to the planning scheme area.
While the SEQRP 2017 has been overtaken by the SEQRP 2023, the subject land remains within
the Regional Landscape and Rural Production Area. The proposed composting facility forms
9 Planning Bill 2015, page 91
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 20
Page 21
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
part of the NRRC, which is community infrastructure and is consistent with planning outcomes
under the SEQRP 2023.
9.2 State Planning Policy 2017
Under part 2.1 of the planning scheme, the planning minister has advised the State Planning
Policy (SPP) dated July 2017 is appropriately integrated within the Noosa Plan 2020 in the
following ways:
• Liveable communities and housing
• Economic growth
• Environment and heritage
• Safety and resilience to hazards;
• Emissions and hazardous activities; and
• Infrastructure.
Under part 2.1.1, the State interests not integrated or only partly integrated, include:
• Natural hazards, risk and resilience for coastal hazards, in part, with respect erosion
prone areas.
Given that the Minister has confirmed the SPP 2017 has been appropriately reflected in the
planning scheme and that the site is not located near a coastal hazard, there is no need to
consider the SPP 2017 in the assessment.
9.3 Planning Regulation 2017
Under the State Assessment Referral Agency (SARA) mapping, the site fronts a state controlled
road, with the NRRC located on land within 25m of a State controlled road (refer Figure 5).
Figure 5 – State Assessment Referral Agency (SARA) Mapping
Under Schedule 10 of the Planning Regulation 2017 (PR2017) the application requires referral
to SARA, pursuant to Part, 9, Division 4, Table 4, Item 1 being within 25m of a state transport
corridor. It is noted the application was originally referred to the Department of Main Roads
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 21
Page 22
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
(as a concurrence agency) under the current development approval. A copy of the State
Development Assessment Provisions for State Code 1: Development in a state-controlled road
is provided as Appendix A.
Under Schedule 10, Part 5, Division 2, for a material change of use for a concurrence ERA under
Table 2 that is not devolved to the local government is to be referred to SARA. A copy of the
State Development Assessment Provisions for State Code 22: Environmental Relevant Activities
is also provided as Appendix A.
It is expected that SARA will consider the current application material and provide advice and
impose conditions of approval relevant to the above state interests.
10 Noosa Plan 2020
10.1 Zoning and Tables of Assessment
Under the planning scheme the subject land is included within the Community Facilities Zone
and is designated Utility Installation (refer Figure 6).
While part of Lot 77 is also included within the Environmental Management and Conservation
Zone, this land is not affected by the proposed change. The subject land is over a relatively
small portion of land included within the Community Facilities Zone when compared to the
area of the land parcel (Lot 77) and generally well removed from surrounding rural residential
properties. Further, the proposed composting facility is generally centrally located within the
existing operational area.
Existing NRRC operational area and
location of Composting Facility
Figure 6 – Extract of zoning plan on aerial photograph (Source: Noosa Council)
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 22
Page 23
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
Under the table of assessment for the Community Facilities Zone (Utility installation) the use
is code assessable being consistent with the annotation. The applicable codes for the
assessment, include:
• Community facilities zone code
• Community activities code; and
• Works codes - to the extent relevant discussed below.
10.2 Overlay Mapping and Codes
Under the overlay mapping, the subject site has the following designations:
• Land subject to acid sulfate soils – above 5m AHD to 20m AHD (refer Figure 7);
• Biodiversity – MSES Environmental values & Area of Biodiversity Significance (refer
Figure 8);
• Bushfire hazard – Medium Potential Bushfire Intensity (Figure 9); and
• Flood hazard – Flooding and inundation (refer Figure 10).
10.2.1 Acid Sulfate Soils Overlay
Figure 7 – Extract of acid sulfate soils
Under the Acid Sulfate Overlay the land for the composting facility potentially contains acid
sulfate soils being above 5m and below 20m AHD. Despite this, the site is within the
operational area of the NRRC and has been previously significantly disturbed. To the extent
an earth works is required, this will be minimised and the disturbance of any acid sulfate soils
can be managed.
In accordance with condition 7 of the current development approval, the applicant is required
to manage acid sulphate soils in accordance with the former State Planning Policy 2/02 -
Planning and Managing Development Involving Acid Sulphate Soils. The proposed
development therefore complies with the Acid Sulfate Soils Overlay Code.
10.2.2 Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 23
Page 24
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
Under the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay, the part of the land where the
compost facility is to be located is not a designated an Area of Biodiversity Significance (refer
Figure 8). Further, is well removed from the waterway towards the north and not close to the
Riparian Buffer Area. In the circumstances, there is no need to address the Biodiversity,
Waterway and Wetlands Overlay Code, given no vegetation is being removed and the matter
of water quality has also been addressed (discussed below).
Figure 8 – Extract of Biodiversity, waterways and wetlands
10.2.3 Bushfire Hazard Overlay
Under the Bushfire Hazard Overlay, the subject land is included within the Potential Buffer Area
(refer Figure 9).
Figure 9 – Bushfire hazard overlay
Under a previous change to the development approval to provide for the new Waste Transfer
Station, “Reviva Shop” and expanded Cleanaway Depot area, an updated Bushfire
Management Plan (BFMP) was provided, which meets current standards (refer reference
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 24
Page 25
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
documents under part 5 Development Approval - 132005.638.04). The approved BFMP
requires provision of a fire trail to the north of the existing Cleanaway Depot.
Having regard to the Bushfire Overlay Code, the following comments are provided:
o The development maintains the safety of people and property from the adverse impacts
of bushfire (PO1).
o The proposed mitigation measures under the BFMP will have no further impact on the
biodiversity values to the north, with an existing bushfire trail to be maintained (PO2).
o While the development is not connected to a reticulated water supply, suitable firefighting
equipment and appropriately sized water tanks will be designed by the hydraulic
consultant to meet current firefighting standards for the development, given the unusual
nature of the site (PO3).
o The development forms part of the essential community infrastructure and does not
increase the level of risk from bushfire (PO4).
o The proposed development will not adversely affect the impacts of bushfire on hazardous
materials manufacturing or storing in bulk quantities (PO5).
o There are no residents associated with the development and appropriate evacuation of the
site can be provided for staff and patrons attending the site as an ongoing operational
requirement under the BFMP (PO6); and
o Adequate fire breaks and access for firefighting and other emergency vehicles are currently
provided in accordance with the BFMP (PO8).
The proposed development complies with the Bushfire Hazard Overlay Code.
10.2.4 Flood Hazard Overlay
Under the Flood Hazard Overlay, the site is subject to flooding during a 1% AEP event (refer
Figure 10).
Figure 10 – Extract of Flood Hazard Overlay Map (Source: Interactive Mapping)
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 25
Page 26
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
The most recent flood study (Flood Impact Assessment, Covey, January 2026) has confirmed
that the central area where the proposed compost facility is to be located is mostly free from
flooding during a 1% AEP event for Stage 2 (refer Figure 4, above). The reduced ground levels
in this part of the site are expected to remain about the same, therefore there is minimal if any
change to the flood modelling.
Having regard to the Flood Hazard Overlay Code the following comments are provided:
• The proposed development will maintain the safety of people and property (PO1);
• The design of the proposed development will be resilient to flood events, with no new
buildings/structures located below a 1% flood event (PO6);
• The proposed development supports and does not unduly burden disaster
management response or recovery or capabilities (PO7);
• The essential community infrastructure will be able to function effectively immediately
after an extreme flood event, including for the composting facility (PO9);
• Any earthworks required by the development will be minor and will not result in
increased flooding or ponding or affect the overall hydrology of the site and
surrounding land (PO10); and
• The proposed development will not worsen and will improve public safety and the
protection of the environment by ensuring hazardous waste materials including
leachate will not be affected by flooding within the site (PO11).
The proposed development complies with the Flood Hazard Overlay Code.
10.2.5 Landslide Hazard Overlay
Under the Landslide Hazard Overlay, parts of the subject land are affected by the mapping
and designated a Moderate Hazard Area (refer Figure 11).
Figure 11 – Extract of Landslide Overlay
While part of the land is affected by the landslide overlay, the subject land where the proposed
composting facility is to be located is relatively unaffected. In any event, the landslip hazard
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 26
Page 27
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
mapping is likely a result of onsite management and changing landforms within the
operational area over many years.
Where the composting facility is to be located there is minimal if any risk of landslide. The
nature of the site and operation requires specialist engineering advice for the construction of
any of the facilities on the land, which has been obtained.
The proposed development either complies with or can be conditioned to comply with the
relevant overlay codes.
10.3 Community Facilities Zone Code
The purpose of the Community Facilities Zone Code is to provide for community related uses,
activities and facilities whether publicly or privately owned including a utility installation, which
is the case here.
With respect to the most relevant performance outcomes the following comments are made:
• The proposed composing facility forms part of the existing community infrastructure
consistent with the Community Facility Zone and the existing operation of the NRRC
(PO1).
• The proposed composing facility is for community related purpose being an ancillary
component providing for improved management of organic waste, including green
waste and some limited low odour risk food waste products (PO2).
• The proposed composting facility is ancillary to the waste management onsite and
entirely consistent with the specific purpose annotated on the zoning map (PO3).
• The composting facility will form part an intricate part of the current NRRC operation,
within an accessible location that is well suited for the intended use and the population
catchment it serves (PO4); and
• The proposed composting facility is of a type, scale and intensity consistent with
community expectations for which there is an identified community need. The
proposed development is a logical improvement to the current waste management
services being provided at the NRRC. Further, the facility can be enhanced in the future
with increased processing to benefit the local community and provide a product to be
sold as a soil conditioner (PO5).
With respect to other relevant performance outcomes about building design, the following
comments are made:
• The proposed built form associated with the composting facility will have a maximum
height of about 8.6m, which is below the expected building height for a pitched roof
being 9m (AO17.2). The proposed development is centrally located and will not be
visible from the Eumundi Noosa Road or nearby rural residential properties. The
proposed development is single storey and respects the scale of the surrounding
vegetation (PO17).
• The proposed composting facility will not significantly increase the plot ratio or site
cover and will not present an appearance of building bulk to adjacent properties or the
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 27
Page 28
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
Eumundi Noosa Road. Further, will not affect the existing landforms or the vegetation
screening buffer provided to the Eumundi Noosa Road, with no significant change to
the current access arrangements (PO18).
• The proposed development is centrally located within the operational area of the NRRC
and complies with all building setbacks (PO19).
• The building design is consistent with the existing use of the site for community
infrastructure (PO20).
• The buildings have been designed to suit the purpose and will complement the existing
operation having an industrial appearance consistent with nature of the existing use
(PO21 – PO26).
• Under the current development approval providing for the new Waste Transfer Station,
“Reviva Shop” and expanded Cleanaway Depot, reinforced planting is to be provided
at the frontage near the access along Eumundi Noosa Road, which will enhance and
protect the visual amenity of the major road network. Further, the proposed
development will not cause any adverse offsite lighting impacts (PO27-PO33);
• The proposed composing facility forms part of the existing utility installation and will
not adversely impact transport or other infrastructure, will not pose a health or safety
risk, will be secure in this location and will maintain public safety (PO36); and
• The proposed development is supported by adequate infrastructure and will not affect
the continued operation, viability and maintenance of existing infrastructure, with the
site already connected to reticulated sewerage, for trade waste purposes (PO50-PO51).
The proposed development is consistent with the Community Facilities Zone Code. The
proposed composting facility will provide significant community benefit and will form an
important part of the organic waste management process and treatment at the NRRC.
10.4 Infrastructure Activities Code
Under the purpose of the Infrastructure Activities Code, major utilities such as the NRRC, are
to be provided in a coordinated and efficient way to meet the needs of existing and future
communities. Further, are to be developed and designed in a manner which will not cause any
adverse impacts on public health or the amenity of surrounding premises.
With respect to the most relevant performance outcomes, the following comments are
provided:
• The proposed infrastructure is to be provided within the existing operational area and
provides opportunities for cost efficiencies and minimises the environmental impacts
when considering site as a whole. The proposed composting facility is a logical and
practical extension to the exiting operation at the NRRC and makes use of existing
infrastructure (PO1).
• There is sufficient separation between adjoining land uses with the development wholly
contained within a smaller part of Lot 77, and well removed from urban uses, as
planned, and the land is expected to be utilised for this purpose. Given the nature of
the existing use, along with the proposed composting facility being centrally located
and replacing the current green waste mulching within the site, it is not expected that
the development will worsen any adverse odour or other noise impacts already
emanating from the current operation (PO2).
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 28
Page 29
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
• The proposed development will have no impact on adjoining premises or scenic
amenity with the existing facility, including the change, to remain screened from
Eumundi Noosa Road (PO3).
With respect to the design requirements (Table 9.3.11.3) the most relevant performance
outcomes are discussed below:
• The siting and design of buildings are compatible with the existing setting and
landscaped character of the area, given the nature of the existing use (PO4).
• The infrastructure has been designed and sited to minimise the visual amenity impacts
(PO5).
• The purpose of the proposed infrastructure is to maximise the reuse and recycling of
by-products associated with the operation of the NRRC (utility installation) consistent
with the zone and current operation (PO12).
• The proposed development will improve the level of risk to public safety for the
operation of the NRRC with improvements being made at the access and egress to
prevent right turns, with traffic flow within the site also being improved more generally
with increased vehicle queuing (PO11).
• The proposed development does not require the clearing of any native vegetation,
being located within an existing operational area of the NRRC (PO13).
• The proposed composting facility will be conducted in an environmentally responsible
manner without causing adverse impacts on environmental values outside of the
existing operational area. The proposed composting facility will not significantly
worsen odour emissions currently being generated from the site. An updated
Stormwater Management Plan will ensure that stormwater runoff and the operation of
the facility will not worsen water quality being discharged from the site to the waterway
towards the north. Leachate from the facility will be effectively managed onsite and
discharged to a holding tank and ultimately connected to reticulated sewerage as trade
waste. The proposed composting facility is also to operate in accordance with an
amended Environmental Authority (EA) to include ERA53 (composting) (PO14); and
• The location and design of the composting facility will not result in the release of
hazardous materials into flood waters, with the land and infrastructure being located
above the 1% AEP level with excess leachate to managed and stored onsite and treated
and or disposed of in a responsible manner (PO15).
The proposed development is consistent with the Infrastructure Activities Code.
10.5 Works Codes
In this case, the most applicable works codes include the following:
• Driveways and Parking Code; and
• Water Quality and Drainage Code.
10.5.1 Driveways and Parking Code
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 29
Page 30
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
Having regard to the most relevant performance outcomes under the Driveways and Parking
Code, the following comments are made:
• Some minor improvements have been recommended under the Traffic Impact Assessment
(TIA) to maintain safety, capacity and the operation of the existing road network. Further,
the existing character and amenity of the streetscape will not be adversely affected by any
works with existing vegetated screening fronting the Eumundi Noosa Road, which is to be
enhanced under the current approval (PO1).
• The traffic expert has concluded that the existing access and egress is suitable and safe for
the intended use but has recommended some upgrading in Eumundi Noosa Road to the
dedicated channelised right turn lane being provided. It is noted that the egress from the
site has already been modified to prevent right turns to mitigate the risk of angle crashes
(PO2).
• The single access/egress location is being maintained in the same location and form
subject to the modifications as explained in the TIA (PO3).
• The traffic expert has considered the existing access and egress and with the mitigation
measures proposed the capacity, operation and maintenance of the existing infrastructure
will be improved (PO4).
• Under table 9.4.1.4, minimum parking requirements for a utility installation is to be
sufficient for the intended use. The proposed composting development will not
substantially increase the demand for parking with six (6) spaces to be provided for the
composting facility on this part of the site. There is a much larger area provided for parking
as shown on the Master Plan (refer Figure 2) (PO6).
• The proposed development for the composting facility provides for additional
weighbridges and an improved internal roadway configuration as part of the design. On-
site vehicle parking and manoeuvring area and loading and manoeuvring areas for delivery
and service vehicles have also been considered in the design (PO7).
• One of the proposed carparking spaces for the composting facility is provided for disability
access (PO9).
• The ingress and egress point for the site is existing and is being improved as part of the
development to improve safety and onsite operations (PO10).
• The proposed composting facility will not generate a significant increase in traffic
movements or a significant demand for parking with adequate within the site in any event
(PO16); and
• The parking and manoeuvring areas within the site will be considered under the ultimate
Stormwater Management Plan (PO17-P019).
Some mitigation measures are being undertaken for the existing ingress and egress as
recommended by the traffic expert. The proposed development does not raise any safety
concerns, given the scale of operation with an expected additional 34 vpd, which will not have
a significant impact on the major road network.
The proposed development including the composting facility, new weighbridges and internal
road modifications comply with the Driveways and Parking Code.
10.5.2 Water Quality and Drainage Code
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 30
Page 31
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
The Interim Stormwater Management Plan (ISWMP) has been briefly discussed above (refer
Attachment 8). A further full SWMP for the site as a whole will be provided as soon as possible.
Having regard to the most relevant performance outcomes under the Water Quality and
Drainage Code, the following comments are made:
• The SWMP will provide for the management of stormwater within the operational area
of the site, including the proposed composting facility and will ultimately replace the
previously approved SWMP prepared by Covey, dated February 2025, referenced under
condition 15. The SWMP is being planned and will be designed having regard to the
natural features and the need to avoid impacts and potential risks to ecological
important areas, including during significant rainfall events (PO1).
• The SWMP will be designed to account for the flood risk on the site, provide for
adequate drainage and ensure stormwater is discharged without altering the
stormwater characteristics external to the site (PO2).
• The proposed stormwater drainage infrastructure is compatible with the drainage line
traversing the site. Further, the improved SWMP will maintain water quality for
important ecological important areas within the waterway north of the site (PO5 &
PO6).
• The proposed development has been specifically designed to suit the site
characteristics and will be constructed to maintain surface and ground water balances.
The design of the stormwater and treatment system will utilise the new HES basin
(Layout Plan - Stage 1) and will sustain the environmental values of water dependent
ecosystems, including downstream aquatic, riparian, wetland and terrestrial
ecosystems stemming from the waterway to the north of the operational area (PO13).
The proposed development complies with the Water Quality and Drainage Code.
11 Conditions of Approval
It is reasonably expected that the conditions of approval will be updated and reflect the new
proposal plans for the composting facility and other reference documents, including the
Odour Impact Assessment, Traffic Impact Assessment, new Stormwater Management Plan (to
be provided) and the updated Flood Impact Assessment (February 2026). Further, that the
development approval will refer to the proposal plans for the composting facility, the updated
Master Plans and the new Layout Plans for Stages 1, 2 & 3.
It is requested that the staging of the development now be reflected in the approval, to remove
any doubt about compliance. To clarify, the staging of the development will subject to funding
and is expected to be as follows:
• Stage 1 – The completion and operation of the new HES Basin;
• Stage 2 – The construction of the proposed Composting Facility, including the
upgrading of the internal roadways, new weighbridges and new hardstand area; and
• Stage 3 – The construction of the Waste Transfer Station, “Reviva Shop” and expansion
of the Cleanaway Depot.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 31
Page 32
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
It is also expected that the works recommended by the traffic expert under the TIA to improve
the level of safety in Eumundi Noosa Road will be undertaken as soon as possible to facilitate
the existing operation and further improve road safety.
The applicant requests an opportunity to discuss the conditions of approval under the change
application prior to the issue of the Decision Notice – Other Change, which allows for the
proposed composting facility, as well as the altered staging of other approved components
for the NRRC.
12 Conclusion
The proposed composting facility is centrally located within the existing operational area of
the NRRC. The proposed facility is a logical extension of the existing organic waste
management and processing on the site, which currently includes mulching and the sale of
mulched green waste material.
The proposed composting facility will improve the processing of organic waste, which includes
some limited low odour food waste products not currently being processed at the NRRC. The
compost facility will significantly value add to the existing organic waste processing and will
result in an improved product that can be sold and used as a soil conditioner. No soil
conditioning is being proposed with the current proposal.
The proposed composting will replace the existing green waste mulching on the site. The
proposed composting facility considered an ancillary component of the existing utility
installation and therefore consistent with the intended use of the land for waste processing
and recycling.
A number of specialist reports have been prepared that demonstrate that the proposed
composting facility will not worsen any adverse odour or water quality impacts, which can be
managed within the site. It is also not expected that the proposed composting facility will
worsen existing noise impacts, given the nature of the use, which replaces the existing
mulching of green waste. Further, the associated noise impacts need to be considered in
context with other operational aspects of NRRC operation, including concrete crushing and
the continuous movement of use of heavy machinery other vehicles.
The proposed composting facility is well located within a central location within the NRRC,
which is also isolated and removed from the surrounding rural residential properties. The
design of the development will also result in improved access and road safety measures being
implemented and improved traffic flow within the site with additional weighbridges and
increased queuing for vehicles.
The proposed development will improve onsite processing of organic waste products in the
form of a compost that could be used as a soil conditioner and sold in a similar manner to the
current mulched green waste material. The proposed composting facility will provide
significant community benefit by improving the organic waste processing at the NRRC, without
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 32
Page 33
“Specialist services and practical solutions”
causing significant environmental harm, to be managed under an amended Environmental
Authority to include ERA53 (composting).
There are no town planning consequences resulting from the proposed development, which
should be approved subject to reasonable and relevant conditions.
23026 – Noosa Resource Recovery Centre (NRRC) – Composting Facility Page 33
Used in these records
Town Planning Report - Other Change Composting Facility .pdfRelated documentApplication case desk ↗
About this file
- File size
- 3.2 MB (large file)
- File type
No other editions are linked here.
Original file
Log in to download the original file
The download may take up to a minute.