Qtown airport CEO says noise boundaries need to extend

Following a noise monitoring programme late last year, the airport corporation has modelled noise generation out to 2037.

"In terms of final assessments, the boundaries have moved significantly," Mr Sanderson told the committee.

The corporation is scheduled to notify the public of its proposed new boundaries next month.

There are currently two noise boundaries around the airport, a 65 Ldn inner area, and an outer 55 Ldn outer control boundary. Ldn is an indicator of average noise levels through the day and night.

Mr Sanderson indicated the airport would propose that a new boundary, 60 Ldn, be established.

"It is proposed there will be no noise sensitive activities between the 60 and 65 (boundaries) ... including hospitals and schools."

Councillor Cath Gilmour checked whether the mooted Frankton Primary School in Grant Rd would fall within this area.

Mr Sanderson replied that there was "still work to be done" on this.

He added, that he was not trying to be evasive on that particular matter.

The proposed school site lies off the northern perimeter of the main runway, in a location the airport has previously suggested is too noisy.

There was discussion at the meeting as to whether the Frankton Flats Plan Change, currently underway, should factor in possible changes to the airport's designations.

Barrister Russell Bartlett, representing Five Mile, argued the Frankton Flats Plan Change should be progressed independently of the forthcoming airport notification.