Many in the Eurobodalla use the Merimbula Regional Airport as a link to Melbourne.
Member for Bega Andrew Constance today announced that construction has started on the $5.4 million upgrade to Merimbula Regional Airport, allowing for more frequent aircraft and larger planes, to land in Merimbula.
“I am proud to see construction kick off on this vital infrastructure project – finally giving our local community the airport they deserve,” Mr Constance said.
“By next year we will see better access to the airport, for locals and visitors to our beautiful far south coast. This is on top of deregulating the Merimbula air route, which will massively improve services to country NSW.
“The boost in tourism from the upgraded airport will create more jobs, bring more customers into our businesses and continue to grow our regional economy. But we can only do so much – I am calling on the Commonwealth government to get on with it and add five more regional slots at Sydney airport. This is the game changer the regions need.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Development John Barilaro said the Merimbula Regional Airport project was one of 27 regional airport upgrades to receive funding from the NSW Government.
“We have committed $110 million to supporting regional tourism through infrastructure projects such as rail trails, airports and cruise terminals through the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Delivering on infrastructure projects assists in attracting more visitors to regional NSW and makes it a more attractive place to live, work and visit.”
Airport upgrades are being delivered in two stages.
· Stage one construction will involve the upgrade of the airport’s water main to ensure sufficient water supply for an expanded airport in the event of a fire.
· Stage two of this upgrade includes the lengthening and upgrade of the airport runway to accommodate larger aircraft.
Both stages of the upgrade are expected to be complete by mid-2018.
For more information about the regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund please visit http://www.industry.nsw.gov.au/business-and-industry-in-nsw/assistance-and-support/regional-tourism-infrastructure-fund Media Release
