NEXT year the Moree airport will be under construction thanks to $1.5 million in funding from the state government.
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The council can use the funding for infrastructure upgrades, as detailed in an application.
They can resurface the existing main runway, remove existing runway lights and install new, modern and compliant lighting. As well as new runway drainage.
An excited mayor, Katrina Humphries, said Moree Plains Shire Council (MPSC) was excited about receiving grant funding for the airport.
“Not only is it vital to maintain our airport as a central hub for the northwest but it is also critical that we maintain our relationship with our current carrier QantasLink,” she said.
“Safety is paramount. An all weather maintained airstrip gives our travellers confidence and a sense of wellbeing.”
The construction will ensure the airport and its infrastructure meets all current and potential future Australian aviation standards.
“Our airport is not only for our local travellers but also industry as it is a very busy airport. We need to foster and embrace locals, tourists and industry alike.”
Cr Humphries believed that the construction would also boost the local workforce.
“How good will it be to see big wheels rolling both at the airport and also with the Puma site starting construction in the New Year as well?
“What a wonderful Christmas present for our very deserving community.”
The airport will continue to facilitate the current commercial passenger service, charter flights and other private aircraft movements.
It will be able to cater for larger aircraft and further services into the future.
Member for Northern Tablelands, Adam Marshall, said without good infrastructure to support the services, there would be no chance of future expansion of flights or larger planes being able to fly in.