Underground bin system trial an Australian first

In the first trial of its kind in Australia, the City of Sydney is set to install an underground waste disposal system in Darlinghurst.

The trial, which is said to cost $80,000 and is yet to receive approval, will see the installation of mechanised rubbish chutes on Royston St, a cul-de-sac.

Ian Kiernan, Chairman of Clean Up Australia, said that while he supports the new system, he has concerns. He said the advantage of the old system is that everything is pre-sorted in the home or office.

“What’s going to happen on a cold night when the recycling bin isn’t close to your house? Then dumping [general waste into the recycling bin] could be a problem,” said Mr Kiernan.

Residents currently use wheelie bins located on a traffic island in the middle of the street. But growth in the number of bins over the years – particularly those used for recycling – has resulted in congestion and attracted pests to the site.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the new system was intended to improve the amenity of Royston St.

“This is an innovative and practical way to manage traffic on these small streets, reduce clutter and beautify these streets for local residents,” she said.

The new system will include the instillation of chutes, leading to five large underground bins – three for general waste and two for recycling. Hydraulic lifts will then be used to empty the bins into garbage trucks.

City of Sydney Councillor Edward Mandla said it could potentially create more problems than it solves. His concerns include vandalism, inconvenience to residents and the dumping of rubbish bins should mechanised chutes break down.

“I’ve never had to change a wheelie bin. What happens when [the new system] breaks down? What’s the back up plan?” said Mr Mandla.

Councillors’ Irene Doutney, Angela Vithoulkas and Mr Mandla all complained they were not briefed about the new system prior to Council’s media release.