SW airport works to start soon

WA civil engineers Ertech have been awarded the design and construction contract for airside works at the Busselton-Margaret River Regional Airport, paving the way for interstate and international services.

The City of Busselton appointed the company as design and construct contractor, with airside works on the lengthening, widening and strengthening of the existing runway, construction of apron parking bays and connecting taxiways, and new aeronautical ground lighting due to start early this year.

As well as allowing for interstate and international flights, the works will address issues with ageing infrastructure and provide improved facilities for emergency services and light and general aviation.

The airport will continue to operate under the terms of the existing noise management plan during construction and the City plans to engage with the community and Environmental Protection Authority on potential impacts of noise from changes to operations.

City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley said he was confident the City would be able to deliver a project that would deliver positive outcomes for the community.

“The project will create local employment opportunities during construction and support long-term regional development by bolstering regional tourism; attracting new visitors to the region, increasing the length of stay and expenditure,” he said.

Arup was appointed as preferred tenderer for the design of landside facilities and new terminal building, construction of which will not begin until later in the year.