TONIGHT'S COUNCIL MEETING
Wednesday, 27th May 2009
Port Macquarie Airport Master Plan 2009 - Discussion Paper
A Discussion Paper on the future development of Port Macquarie Airport will now go on public exhibition following tonight's Council meeting.
The Discussion Paper has been prepared in order to obtain feedback from the community, airport stakeholders and nearby residents on a range of development issues, constraints and options.
Feedback received will assist Council to prepare the draft 2009 Master Plan, which will provide the strategic direction for the future development of the airport, including providing adequate infrastructure and facilities to meet the forecast increase in demand.
Council Administrator Garry Payne said, "Passenger numbers using the airport are expected to reach between 450,000 and 500,000 within the next 15 years as the airport caters for larger jets that are typically used by the main domestic airlines.
"The Discussion Paper also identifies two primary runway options needed to cater for larger jets. These include either extending and upgrading the existing runway on its current alignment to 1800m and to construct a new parallel taxiway, or to construct a new 1800 metre runway with the existing runway being converted to a parallel taxiway," Mr Payne said.
It is important that residents take the opportunity to comment on the proposal as it goes on public exhibition. Copies of the Discussion Paper will be available at all Council offices and libraries as well as online at www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au
Catering Expression of Interest for the Glasshouse
Last night Council adopted a recommendation to have further discussions with Panthers regarding the provision of catering services in the Glasshouse when it opens next month. Staff will meet with will now negotiate with the company to establish a set of menus, which will reflect the high level of service provision at the Glasshouse with a strong focus on local produce.
Community and Cultural Development Director, Lesley Atkinson said, "Of the two expressions of interest received by Council, the Panthers Group met all of the criteria. They have a proven track record of delivering quality service to large numbers of people.
"We have been out to the marketplace twice now seeking expressions of interest and have only received limited interest. We believe this has primarily been because of the current economic climate, as well as the fact that the Glasshouse is a new business in the very early stages of development.
"Working with the Panthers Group, we will be able to provide catering at a variety of levels to a range of different corporate and community events which will in turn enable both parties to assess the value of the business for future contract negotiations," Ms Atkinson said.
Disability Discrimination Action Plan
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council tonight adopted the Disability Discrimination Action Plan 2009-2018 following completion of the public exhibition period.
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) Action Plan was developed in response to Council's ongoing commitment to the provision of equitable and dignified access to all Council planning, services, facilities, programs, communications and employment systems. It also demonstrates Council's commitment to comply with the intent of the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA).
Director of Community and Cultural Development, Lesley Atkinson said, "I am pleased Council has now adopted the Action Plan which aims to better meet community expectations about how people with a disability are treated.
"It is important for everyone in the community to have a greater understanding of disability needs and services.
"Access to buildings is one issue the Plan identifies as needing particular focus and greater awareness.
"Whilst we are looking to improve access for people with a disability by implementing the plan, we will also be making the Port Macquarie Hastings area a better place to live for the entire community.
"Council will monitor the successful implementation of the Action Plan and regularly review it to ensure it continues to meet the needs of the community," Ms Atkinson said.
