A full reconstruction of Nelson Airport’s apron is ready to begin, with the $10 million project expected to take six months to complete.
The work will be completed in six stages and will including the replacement of an old concrete stormwater drain.
The apron is the area of the airport where aircraft park, are loaded, unloaded and refuelled, and where passengers board and disembark.
Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook says a full reconstruction has been planned for several years and is essential to safeguard current and future airport operations.
“The existing apron is nearing the end of its life. It’s had a good run but we are at the point where continuing to extend its use through patch repairs is no longer practical or safe.”
Brendan says the need to reconstruct the entire area had provided an opportunity to implement design improvements that would improve safety and efficiency for airlines, as well as convenience for passengers.
“We’ve redesigned the stand arrangement (where aircraft park) for closer, more streamlined access from the terminal once works are complete. That’s a win for passengers, who can expect a more convenient and consistent experience boarding, regardless of which airline they choose to fly with,” he says.
The project also provides the ability to expand the number of stands in future when extra capacity is needed.
The project will require the airport to close a 1.4-kilometre section of the Airport Perimeter Walkway from 11 November until works are complete.
This closure is to allow construction vehicles to access the work site and transport excavated material to other airport sites.
Some material removed during the project will be re-used in other construction projects.
Through these methods, the project team aims to eliminate waste to landfill.
“The Airport Perimeter Walkway can still be accessed from Bolt Rd as a return walk to and from the start of the construction management area.
“There will be signage at each end of the track alerting walkers,” Brendan says.
Airport visitors are advised to follow all signage and be aware there are likely to be some changes to carparking and pedestrian access to the terminal, as well as to their boarding and disembarking experience.
“It’s impossible to carry out a project of this size without any disruption, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding over the next six months.”
The apron reconstruction work is fully funded by the airport company.
