​Council approves temporary closure of some Transfer Stations

A temporary closure plan has been put in place for a number of transfer stations across the Clutha District for the remainder of this financial year.

At the meeting on 4 February 2026, Council approved that transfer stations in Clinton, Lawrence, Milton, Owaka and Tapanui be temporarily closed, as these areas have kerbside collection to the townships and on travel routes in adjacent rural areas. The Maclennan transfer station in Papatowai, which does not receive kerbside collection, will remain open.

The district supports two unmanned stations Beaumont and Taieri Mouth, which will also remain open.

In a report presented to Council, it was identified that operating transfer stations across the district was economically unviable, with some of the facilities underutilised and costing a considerable amount to operate.

An estimated loss of between $110,000 and $116,000 was likely for the 2025/26 financial year. Council is focused on prudent spending, and the report highlighted that there were savings to be made in this area.

Infrastructure Strategy & Delivery Group Manager, Donna McArthur, advised that results of a review of transfer station operations would be available in May. However, this would be too late for the next financial year’s budgets, so the temporary closure proposal was approved.

Further discussion was required to determine whether the transfer station temporary closures will extend into the next financial year.

Fly tipping was also highlighted as a concern if the transfer stations were closed, with Mrs McArthur advising that this will form part of a review.

Transfer stations in Clinton, Lawrence, Milton, Owaka and Tapanui will be temporarily closed from Monday, 9 March 2026.