Cessnock Council says it will proceed with an almost $9 million upgrade of Cessnock Airport after receiving a cash injection from the state government.
$6.6 million has been awarded to the project by the NSW Government with the remaining $2.2 million to come from council.
The upgrades will see the widening and resealing of taxiways; provision of aprons and aircraft parking areas, improved fuel area access, runway rehabilitation, water and sewer connections, installation of non-precision GPS approaches for RWY 17/35 and an upgrade to the eastern terminal.
The project is being welcomed by neighboring Crown Plaza Hunter Valley owner Jerry Schwartz, who has been lobbying for upgrades to the airport for years.
Mr Schwartz says its a step in the right direction of his vision for a commercial operation.
"There are so many benefits to this and that is why I have been trying to champion the airport.
"Unfortunately, the only way to get to the Hunter is by car. There are no train lines, which is something I've certainly looked at.
"By coming to the Hunter by air, it's only half-an-hour from Sydney. That makes it so much closer to Sydney and that much easier to get here. This would have major economic benefits for the region and would really unlock its potential," Mr Schwartz said.
There are conditions which come with the funding from the state government which means the project and all works must be completed by 30 June 2022.
Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent says he is excited to see this project kick off as it has the potential to create nearly 60 jobs and will be a welcome boost for the economy.
"Our tourism industry has been hit hard in recent times and this project will transform Cessnock Airport into one of the state's top airports for general aviation and improve the visitor experience," Cr Pynsent said.
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| Pictured: Aerial view of Cessnock Airport. |
