New Dumping Zone and Safer Access Road
The Department of Waste Management has officially opened a newly engineered haul road and dedicated dumping platform at the Virgin Gorda Dumpsite. The infrastructure upgrades are designed to enhance operational safety by reducing incline hazards for heavy transport vehicles.
The Department of Waste Management has officially opened a newly constructed dumping zone and dedicated haul road at the Virgin Gorda Dumpsite. The infrastructural upgrades are aimed at enhancing operational efficiency while significantly improving safety for heavy commercial vehicles, site personnel, and members of the public using the facility.
The newly engineered haul road features a gentler slope, designed specifically to reduce the risk of heavily loaded trucks losing control while descending into the disposal area. At the foot of the access road, the new dumping zone provides a wide, level platform that gives drivers sufficient room to safely unload materials, execute turnarounds, and exit the premises without compromising site operations.
Director of the Department of Waste Management, Brian A. Davis, emphasized that user safety remains the primary focus of the facility's redesign. Davis explained that the improvements are intended to create a safer environment for drivers, employees, and visitors alike, noting that the gentler incline gives loaded trucks a more controlled route down while the flat platform offers drivers ample space to tip and maneuver safely.
Under the updated site layout, the new dumping zone is designated exclusively for specific waste streams, including construction and demolition rubble, concrete, soil and fill, and green waste. The department clarified that several materials are strictly prohibited from this section, including bulk metal, tyres, batteries, used oil, household garbage, chemicals, hazardous waste, and medical waste.
Motorists and commercial haulers carrying these excluded items must proceed to the appropriate designated disposal areas within the wider facility. To maintain safe traffic flow, the department advises all motorists to follow the instructions of the on-site supervisor. Drivers are reminded to engage low gears when descending the haul road, reduce speed when approaching bends, and strictly avoid overtaking.
Additionally, vehicles must be positioned on level ground with emergency brakes secured before tipping materials, and tipping beds must be fully lowered before moving. To assist the public and commercial haulers in navigating the changes, the department has released a short instructional video featuring drone footage of the new layout, outlining safe unloading procedures, accepted waste types, and site rules.
The Virgin Gorda Dumpsite remains open Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Primary source: BVI Government