The long-awaited draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Western Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek was released earlier today.
Early indications are that there are some pleasing signs for Penrith – especially in relation to aircraft noise, which may not have the impact originally feared.
However, the draft EIS is some 4000 pages in length and will take time to absorb.
“The draft EIS is the culmination of over 700 field investigations and 19 technical studies,” said Lindsay MP, Fiona Scott.
“Public comment is invited over the coming 60 days. I am pleased to say that the Minister for the Environment, the Hon Greg Hunt MP has responded to my request, doubling the initial 30 days that was earmarked.”
The proposed airport will be a 3.7 km single runway with a terminal built for an initial 10 million passengers per year, with the official opening anticipated in 2025.
“Economically, the airport will deliver 3,000 jobs during construction. It is projected to create across Western Sydney 9,000 jobs by 2030, jumping to 60,000 by 2063,” Ms Scott said.
“This is an important project with some enormous potential benefits for our region. However, we need to get it right. It is important that residents here in Lindsay have a thorough look through the draft EIS. I strongly encourage you to have your say.”
Penrith Mayor, Karen McKeown believes local residents should have even longer to voice their opinions.
“I consider the 60 day exhibition period inadequate to address the level of detail involved and the impacts an airport may have – this airport has already been with successive governments for decades,” she said.
“The draft EIS is approximately 4000 pages. Penrith Council has been calling for a minimum of 90 days to respond to the draft EIS.”
See http://www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au to view the draft EIS.
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