$800,000 lighting upgrade for airport

THE Whitsunday Coast Airport will get an $800,000 ground lighting upgrade.

Council voted on Wednesday to call for expressions of interest prior to tendering for the design, supply and installation of the lighting.

Mayor Jenny Whitney said the upgrade was the final element of the 2013-14 capital works budget to be delivered and another step towards the airport gaining international status.

“The upgrade will provide LED lighting at closer intervals along the runway, modernizing the runway lighting and future proofing the facility,” Mayor Whitney said.

“The high intensity LED lights will provide a safer approach for aircrafts in lower visibility conditions and during poor weather.

“Once complete the new runway lighting system will enhance operations at Whitsunday Coast Airport in adverse weather conditions” she said.

Mayor Whitney said Council was working with airlines and investors to expand existing flight routes, add new routes and develop the airport with the aim of upgrading the airport to international status.

“Whitsunday Regional Council is also in discussions with the Queensland Government regarding designating the Whitsunday Coast Airport as a Priority Development Area (PDA),” she said.

“A PDA for the Whitsunday Coast Airport will maximise the economic and development opportunities of this key precinct, expanding the developable size from 430 hectares to over 1000 hectares, creating a unique precinct on the east coast of Australia with direct access to the North Coast Railway Line and the Bruce Highway.

“It once again demonstrates the pathway to make any potential future expansion of the terminal or runway at the airport much easier.” she said.