By JO HARRISON
ARMIDALE Airport will receive $5.4 million to upgrade runway infrastructure to allow for larger planes to land transforming the airport into a regional hub for the vast number of travellers that use the facility.
What was a pledge last week from the Nationals candidate for New England Barnaby Joyce for $3.5 million will now be a reality after Mr Joyce convincingly won the seat of New England at Saturdays Federal Election. The remaining $1.9 million will be funded by Armidale Dumaresq Council.
The schedule of work to improve the airport will include new LED lighting on the runway, widen the runway apron to allow for larger planes, underground fuel tanks and bowsers for smaller planes, expand the terminal for increased traffic and security systems and address parking.
“The money will be very much appreciated and will go a long way to addressing the needs of the airport and the travelling public,” Armidale Dumaresq Mayor Jim Maher said.
“This money will enable us to future proof the airport and allow us to be competitive on service and facilities.
“This is the gateway to Armidale and we need to be proud of it.”
Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce reinforced the need for his government to fight for the needs of the people of New England and for the future of Armidale.
“Armidale Airport is vital not only for Armidale and the University of New England, but also for surrounding areas. The towns of Guyra, Inverell, Uralla and Glen Innes rely on the airport, and the expansion will allow the airport to better serve the citizens of the New England electorate,” Mr Joyce said.
“Upgrading the airport’s facilities for larger aircraft has the potential to attract other airlines to compete on the Sydney to Armidale route.
“It builds on the existing strengths of the regional airport encouraging local businesses, attracting tourists, and allowing new people to relocate their families and enterprises to Armidale,” he said.
“This expansion has the potential to deliver an economic boost to the region. I aim to build for growth and that’s what this project does.”
