Supercars Australia admits some homes in Newcastle's East End will be impacted by noise above accepted guidelines when the Newcastle 500 comes to the city in November.
Organisers commissioned an independent audit which found 31 homes in 11 buildings will be subjected to noise levels between one and seven decibels higher than recommended guidelines.
However, Supercars boss, James Warburton maintains the impact of noise can be addressed by simple and effective mitigation strategies and they're working with government agencies to identify and help any residents in the East End with special needs.
"The Supercars are actually getting in contact with each and every one of those residents and discussing a range of mitigation factors. There's a whole range of measures that we're putting in place, plus working with family and community services, if there's mental health issues or elderly or very young kids. We're working through each individual need in the precinct."
The organisers will be publishing a noise management plan featuring a number of noise mitigation strategies for residents and businesses in the precinct.
Proposed measures include installing acoustic screens at key points on the circuit, providing hearing protection to individuals, moving from the front of properties to back rooms and advising concerned residents to leave the racing precinct during the day.
Warburton thinks the positives of the event far outweigh the negatives.
"I don't think there's any shadow of a doubt that this will be the biggest event Newcastle's ever seen, and it's here for the long term. It'll be a huge boost and stimulus for local businesses, and obviously the local community. This really is about shining a light very brightly on Newcastle and ensuring that when our fans come here, they come a little earlier and leave a little later and really enjoy the region."
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| Supercars Boss James Warburton says Noise Issues Can Be Mitigated |
