Page 3170 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 20 August 2019
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The committee heard little discussion on waste, but Ms Lawder’s colleagues from Brindabella know that the smell from the Mugga Lane facility is a talking point at any mobile office. Ms Lawder believes we need to think about how we will manage our waste as the ACT grows. We acknowledge that FOGO has a significant cost associated with it, and there is much controversy about waste to energy through incineration. But this is a debate that must be had if we are to responsibly manage our waste into the next half century. There are active contractors undertaking composting and recycling; that is encouraging and to be encouraged.
As the ACT looks to deal with the challenges that waste management offers, it is crucial that Canberrans understand what is taking place and how it affects them. How the ACT government will address future options for waste management, given the rapid population growth in the ACT and the limited scope for expansion of the Mugga Lane facility, is an important environmental concern for this government and for all Canberrans.
Relating to heritage, our heritage is our city’s character. All the greatest cities in the world are defined by their heritage character, so I would like to start by acknowledging some of the good work being done by the EPSDD in heritage.
In particular, I refer to Lanyon valley homestead. The upgrades to Lanyon valley homestead are something to be welcomed. The installation of water infrastructure at the homestead will, firstly, ensure that the gardens on site will remain beautiful, which will help preserve the historic character and landscape of the homestead. Secondly, the new infrastructure means that the fire protection system will be adequately pressurised, protecting the homestead in an emergency. Finally, a supply of clean water will make this historic property more accessible and amenable to visitors and safer and more hygienic for staff, volunteers and tenants.
The construction upgrades at the homestead will combat structural deterioration issues which cannot be fixed by routine management, such as rising damp, drainage, and timber and masonry conservation. The installation of new security infrastructure will ensure that this important site will be protected day and night and will reinforce public safety during events. The development of the Ngunnawal trail near the homestead will improve accessibility to the homestead and is forecast for completion by the end of the year. This is good work and a good investment.
On the revitalisation of heritage buildings, the work being done for Albert Hall and the Civic merry-go-round are also welcomed. Each of these projects is an investment in an important and iconic landmark in our city, and I look forward to seeing their completion over the next 12 months. I also note an investment into Manuka Pool. (Second speaking period taken.) That should make it a more accessible and enjoyable heritage amenity for the public.
Unfortunately, there are some other areas where things are not going so well in heritage, for example the felled scarred trees. Two heritage-listed scarred trees were felled in Wanniassa. One of those trees ended up in the mulcher. These trees, which were inadvertently or accidentally cut down, were the subject of two investigations.
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