Runway extension proposal on exhibition

20 November 2019

The proposed extension to the Merimbula Airport runway has taken a significant step forward with the Development Application, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), on public exhibition from today.

Aviation experts Lambert and Rehbein, with a team including pilots, engineers and runway specialists, have led the plan development for the runway extension and Council is inviting and encouraging the community to provide their feedback on the proposal.

Council’s Director Assets and Operations, Anthony McMahon, said the aim of the project is to allow a greater range of aircraft and airlines to provide both passenger and freight services to the region.

“It is important to note that the proposed additions are to be used for the commencement of take-offs only. As a result, aircraft will complete their take-off and land in the current locations and consequently the flight paths and protected airspaces around the airport will not need to change,” Mr McMahon said.

“The successful completion of the extension, which is consistent with the current approved master plan for the site, would assist in the ongoing growth of passenger numbers.

“The application includes the EIS, prepared by local firm NGH Environmental. This comprehensive assessment identifies potential impacts and their mitigations, including a noise management plan, and is the culmination of detailed, expert investigations and community consultation,” he said.

Given the scale of the project, the application is classed as regionally significant development, with the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel being the consent authority.

To view the application and EIS and to provide feedback visit www.begavalley.nsw.gov.au/haveyoursay. Hardcopies of the EIS are also be available for viewing at the Tura-Murrang Library and Bega Valley Shire Council offices in Bega. The exhibition period will close on 20 January 2020.

The work around the runway extension is being conducted in tandem with the terminal upgrade that is nearing completion.

The Merimbula Airport Runway Extension project is being jointly funded by the NSW Government and Bega Valley Shire Council.

Photograph: The Development Application for the proposed extension to the Merimbula Airport runway, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), is on public exhibition from today.

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