Go-ahead for Murrayfield Airpark near Mandurah

12/12/94

The Murrayfield Airpark and resort complex near Mandurah has been given the green light by Environment Minister Kevin Minson, providing strict noise conditions imposed to protect nearby residents are adhered to.

Mr Minson approved the project based on a set of environmental conditions which resulted from investigations held over more than two years between the Environmental Protection Authority, the developers and the community.

He said the joint developers, the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia and Hawkview Holdings Pty Ltd, would have to prepare a noise monitoring and management program before the airfield was used.

"The program needs to address issues such as the extent of circuit and non-circuit training areas, the establishment and operation of a noise monitoring station and a  complaint register and response procedure," Mr Minson said.

"Each aircraft type likely to use the airpark regularly has to complete a standard noise test and noise levels affecting nearby homes will not be allowed to exceed certain limits."

Mr Minson said there would be no aircraft involved in flying circuit training, landing or taking off from the airpark between 10 pm and 7 am.  The only exception would be in an emergency situation.

"The use of the east-west runway will be restricted because it is very close to homes in the Nambeelup Park Estate," he said.

"The developers have agreed to buy any residential properties in the nearby estate which are affected by aircraft noise if the owners wish to sell.

"If people do not want to sell and are affected by aircraft noise, the developers will acoustically treat their homes to reduce indoor aircraft noise levels associated with pilot training."

The site for the resort and airpark is in Nambeelup Road, Nambeelup, about 10kms north-east of Mandurah.

Media contact:  Caroline Lacy 222 9595 or 321 2222.