Morgan gives update on the restoration of Simmer and Jack Landfill Site
"Chemicals are been sprayed throughout the day to try minimise the smell.”
Ward 36 Clr Wendy Morgan has provided feedback on efforts to eliminate the bad odour at the Simmer and Jack Landfill Site.
In recent weeks, residents raised concerns about the unpleasant smell from the site, citing health risks.
Following these complaints, the city acknowledged the challenges that led to the issue.
Accompanying Morgan on an oversight visit was Clr Amanda Davison from the environmental oversight committee.
ALSO READ: Moves to resolve crime and grime at Simmer and Jack Landfill Site welcomed
The team also met with the Ekurhuleni management team and representatives from the contractor operating the landfill.
Morgan highlighted that a damaged wall on Main Reef Road has been repaired, which will help address various issues affecting the Wychwood community.
Her oversight visit confirmed that the landfill site’s permitted height, as per its licence, is 40m.
“Late last year, the last report indicated that approximately six months of airspace remained.
“Interventions have been put in place to keep the landfill site’s waste intake below 20 000 tons per month, though the licence allows for 25 000 tons,” said Morgan.
“Currently, only private trucks and residents are using the landfill site,” she added.
“All five of the city’s landfill sites are now operational, reducing the pressure on Simmer and Jack.
“The GDARD approval for the development of a new cell, which will provide additional airspace for dumping, is still pending.”
ALSO READ: Simmer and Jack Landfill Site closes temporarily
Morgan explained that only the remaining empty pockets of the current site are being used for dumping.
“In December, due to heavy rainfall, the covering material (soil) became mud and could not be transported to cover the refuse. However, the waste is now being compacted and covered with soil,” she said.
“This was the main cause of the bad smell. Soil berms have been built along Main Reef Road to prevent litter from being blown over the edge.
“A specialised TLB is currently working on the exposed landfill face visible from Main Reef Road.
“Litter pickers will then clean up the area, and grass will be planted to improve the site’s appearance.”
ALSO READ: Watch: Suspects busted for illegal mining at Simmer and Jack Landfill Site
“The contractor is also repairing all broken sections of the fence, which frequently get damaged. The long-term plan is to build a solid concrete wall, but this depends on budget availability,” she said.
“Recent heavy rainfall has further delayed the waste-covering process. However, the contractor is prioritising this task. Chemicals are being sprayed throughout the day to minimise the smell,” Morgan said.
“Unfortunately, when the wind blows from the south, it carries the odour into residential areas. However, the issue is being addressed,” she said.
Residents can contact Morgan on 072 963 9675.
