THE City of Kalamunda is proposing updates to its local planning scheme to reflect revised aircraft noise forecasts linked to Perth Airport’s draft master plan 2026.

The proposed amendment would update Australian noise exposure forecast contours across parts of High Wycombe, Forrestfield, Maida Vale and Wattle Grove, with the contours used to guide where residential and other noise-sensitive developments are considered suitable.

According to the scheme amendment report, updated aircraft noise contours would extend further into residential parts of Wattle Grove compared to 2020 forecasting.

The report states this would result in a greater number of residents being affected compared to the 2020 contour.

Parts of the Hatch Court light industrial area would also experience increased impacts under the revised contours, while some areas of High Wycombe are expected to see slightly reduced impacts.

The amendment follows updated noise modelling endorsed by Airservices Australia as part of Perth Airport’s long-term planning process.

Under State Planning Policy 5.1, ANEF contours are used to manage development around airports and reduce the impact of aircraft noise on surrounding communities.

The report explains that residential development becomes less suitable as ANEF levels increase, with higher exposure zones requiring stricter planning controls and additional noise mitigation measures.

It also notes the revised contours could create opportunities for increased residential density in parts of High Wycombe where aircraft noise impacts have reduced compared to earlier forecasts.

City officers said the amendment would ensure Kalamunda’s planning scheme remained consistent with current aircraft noise modelling and state planning requirements.