Construction work and level crossing noise at a Metronet project in Perth’s north-east have long been causing sleepless nights for residents.
Now, Midland residents have been overcome with fumes but the transport minister says it’s all part of building for the future.
First it was construction noise from the multibillion-dollar project and warning bells from the new Cale Street level crossing keeping residents up at night.
Fiona Nichols was overcome by petrol-like fumes. So much so, she couldn’t sleep at home.
“I’m feeling nauseous and dizzy,” Nichols told 9News.
“I’d liken it to something like food poisoning but no, I haven’t experienced something like this before.”
The stink is from roadworks connected to the project.
The overpowering smell also affecting patrons at the local pub after the outside fumes were sucked inside through an air-conditioning vent.
“Our venue was immediately filled with a pungent smell, a bitumen-type smell,” business owner Kevin Bartholomew told 9News.
The residents and business owners say they’re not opposed to the development.
They just want those in charge, including the minister, to show more consideration to their wellbeing.
“Give people a warning if there’s going to be a terrible smell,” Nichols suggested.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti apologised for the inconvenience related to building the new stations and rail lines.
“We apologise for all the inconvenience, but this is about building the infrastructure for the future,” she then added.
Construction is set to continue into next year with the Midland station expected to open in 2025.
“To say ‘we’re sorry for the inconvenience’ over and over and over has lost its shine a little bit and lost its meaning,” Bartholomew said.
