Melbourne Airport’s announcement that it would start initial construction on a third runway this month has sparked concern among locals about how the increased air traffic will negatively affect their health.
Keilor Village resident Susan Jennison lives directly under aircraft flight paths and is looking to move out of the area.
She said the impacts of noise from aeroplanes is a major factor in her decision.
“My house would shake at night. That’s without the third runway. You think, ‘what’s it gonna be like with the third runaway?’” Ms Jennison said.
“People are learning about that third runway and they are moving out, including myself, because they are sick of noise.”
Keilor Valley local and former GP Dr Michael Howson is also worried about extra noise from aircraft once the third runway opens.
“The night time is really important because each time you hear a noise in your sleep it triggers a fight or flight response and your body is meant to be recovering and healing,” Dr Howson said.
“If you’ve got planes every half hour it keeps breaking that natural cycle, that’s why those planes are so dangerous at night.
“It’s really gonna hit the houses in Keilor … it’s going to make that place unliveable.”
Melbourne Airport announced the community consultation for its noise amelioration plan is underway.
According to the Melbourne Airport website, the plan is a requirement as part of the commonwealth approval for the third runway project.
The plan will inform the noise amelioration program, which will address and mitigate negative impacts of aircraft noise for Hume and Brimbank residents as well as sensitive public buildings in these areas, according to the website.
Dr Howson believes the community consultation is just a “box-ticking exercise”.
Melbourne Airport third runway executive director Peter Lellyett said the airport is committed to working closely with local communities to manage the impacts of the project, particularly when it comes to aircraft noise.
“Consultation for the noise amelioration plan is a key step in making sure residents have access to information, can provide feedback and understand how we are planning for the future.”
