MP calls for noise insulation scheme

The plan to build a third runway at Perth Airport has renewed calls for a noise insulation scheme.

Steve Irons, the Federal Member for Swan, said yesterday he had lobbied for better noise abatement measures at the airport since flight paths were changed in 2008.

"It is clear that there is a precedent in Australia for such measures to be introduced and affected Perth residents should expect nothing less," Mr Irons said.

He said building the runway would lead to a passenger levy to cover the airport's construction costs.

"If Perth Airport were to introduce this levy, it would provide an opportunity to develop a noise insulation scheme similar to those operated in Adelaide and Sydney."

EXCLUSIVE: AIRPORT NOISE COULD AFFECT NEW HOMES

Mr Irons said the "outdated ANEF" noise system was a forecast of noise, not a measurement, and that a decibel noise contour system was better to judge which residents would be eligible for insulation.

Authorities say insulating homes around Sydney Airport cost about $60,000 for each dwelling.

Geoffrey Thomas