In order to preserve historic sites and their natural and built environments, no permit shall be issued for a solid waste disposal facility within 5,708 yards of the geographic center of any of the three sites currently designated in Georgia as a National Historic Site; provided, however, that the director may permit a solid waste disposal facility at such a site if the applicant provides evidence that no alternative sites or methods are available in that jurisdiction for the handling of its solid waste. This Code section shall apply to all permit applications made on or after July 1, 1988, and to all permits issued prior to July 1, 1988, which permits are the subject of an appeal or judicial review and such appeal or judicial review is in process.