By Max Hatzoglou
Melbourne Airport has released a response to concerns from nearby residents surrounding the proposed third runway.
The Melbourne Airport proposed third runway has resulted in an outpour of submissions from residents as far as out as Braybrook as some say the additional runway will cause disruption that may impact work and sleep cycles.
Melbourne Airport has responded to concerns, saying the proposed third runway will come with its positives and negatives similar to any other projects.
“As with any major transport infrastructure project in a big-city urban environment, both positive and negative impacts are expected to result from Melbourne Airport’s proposed third runway,” a Melbourne Airport spokesperson said.
Despite residents, including a retired general practitioner, saying the proposed runway provides insufficient evidence that it will be safe, the Melbourne Airport said the impacts have been extensively analysed.
“Melbourne Airport engaged independent experts to rigorously assess health and social aspects of this project, for the construction period and as operations begin and increase over time,” the spokesperson said.
“The resulting content in the Major Development Plan is the most extensive analysis of foreseeable community impacts undertaken by any Australian airport.
“We are confident that the assessments are thorough and authentically presented, but we also welcome community analysis and response.”
The airport admitted the project would result in more noise for nearby residents.
“We appreciate that local residents are most concerned about the impacts of increased noise, and we are being transparent that this project will result in new or more noise for some communities – particularly suburbs north and south of the airport,” the spokesperson said.
“The full extent of our assessments is available online and at six libraries throughout Hume and Brimbank.”
The airport is encouraging the community to express their queries and concerns via the information sessions or by making submissions via email or online.
Details: newrunway@melair.com.au, www.melbourneairport.com.au/runway or caportal.com.au/melair/virtual?hview=modalEventCal
