HIGH Wycombe residents have launched a formal action plan hoping to challenge the proposed Hatch Court light industrial precinct, coordinating a series of community information sessions and beginning a petition to submit to the City of Kalamunda.

The movement seeks to address mounting concerns over the lack of separation between the industrial zone and the residential neighbourhood surrounding Hatch Court.

As reported in High Wycombe industrial area concerns continue residents have been concerned about the lack of separation between the industrial zone and the residential neighbourhood, and worried they would be exposed to loud noises, strong odours, and increased traffic congestion.

Hillview Lifestyle Village residents, located across the road from the proposed future industrial precinct, are worried the planned future road through the area will bring an increase in traffic, affecting congestion in and out of the village.

Hillview resident and the primary organiser of the petition Anne McCormack says the proposed plan shows a total disregard for the safety of those living in the area.

“The current plan which is to build a new road through where Enviro Pipes currently are, and beyond, appears to pay no attention to the Lifestyle Village entrance and the bus stop,” she said.

“There is a constant stream of traffic in and out and residents have to cross Kalamunda Road to access the bus stop, increasing the danger of collisions.

“There would be serious degradation of living standards caused by the congestion, inherent noise, exhaust fumes and the risk involved in attempting to negotiate the proposed traffic situation.”

Ms McCormack claims the proposed intersection will disrupt traffic coming off the rail bridge at Abernethy Road, which she warns could worsen the existing bottleneck at the Abernethy-Kalamunda junction.

Despite the opposition, the City of Kalamunda has maintained that the draft Local Planning Policy 35 (LPP 35) is designed to coordinate development through traffic management and environmental buffers.

The community-led petition seeks to formally challenge the current road layout and demand safer pedestrian access for those relying on public transport.

“Anyone who is affected or lives in High Wycombe is welcome to attend our information sessions this Friday,” Ms McCormack said.

“We have been doing letter drops all week to ensure the community is aware so we can get enough signatures for the city to take notice.

“We’ve invited councillors as well, so we hope our serious concerns about this development are heard.

Residents in the area are invited to attend the current public meeting at Hillview Lifestyle Village this Friday, January 9 at the main facility clubhouse.

Three sessions will be held at 10am, 1pm, and 7pm.

Formal comments on the proposed LPP 35 remain open until 5pm Friday, January 16 via the city’s engagement portal.