Tenders to be called for Stage 1A upgrade of Port Macquarie Airport
The upgrade of Port Macquarie Airport has moved a step closer with Council formally adopting to call for tenders for the Stage 1A development of the project at the July Council meeting.
The Stage 1A works will involve the strengthening, extending and widening of the existing runway to cater for further growth in air services up to Code 4C (B737-800 / A320 series) aircraft and the expansion of the apron to provide additional aircraft parking positions.
Council's Director Corporate and Business Services Craig Swift-McNair said it was a significant step forward in the project which will allow Council to proceed with the airside development while further consultation with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is undertaken concerning the proposed landside upgrades.
"Council is continuing to work closely with CASA in order to ensure that the proposed upgrade not only meets the short-term objective of facilitating the introduction of new Code 4C aircraft services, but also safeguards the long-term future operation of Port Macquarie Airport for these services in accordance with CASA and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards," Mr Swift-McNair said.
"While discussions have been positive, Council will await formal confirmation from CASA as to the specific requirements for the terminal and car park improvements before moving forward on this section of the project."
"Tonight's decision means Council can proceed to the tender phase for the airside upgrade which includes construction of works that are compliant with the current CASA standards."
The works are part of an overall $25 million investment in Port Macquarie Airport to cater for forecast growth in air services and passenger numbers. Planning and design for a new rental car and staff car park as identified in the 2010 Airport Master Plan will also continue.
"The upgrade of Port Macquarie Airport is an important infrastructure project which will underpin the economic development and tourism potential of the Port Macquarie-Hastings and wider Mid North Coast region," Mr Swift-McNair said.
The proposed airside upgrade is supported by $15 million in funding assistance provided by the Australian Government under the Community Infrastructure Grants program.
