Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris is calling on all candidates in the upcoming council election to commit to supporting the Central Coast Airport masterplan.
Harris said a region like the Central Coast needed a general aviation facility which could leverage its geographic location between NSW’s two major cities, Sydney and Newcastle.
“A well thought out development can support training, jobs and tourism,” Harris said.
“Already the Central Coast Airshow is a winner with thousands of local residents and visitors.
“Many locals are training for their pilot licences, including young people.
“Central Coast Aero Club is currently advertising for jobs for mechanics and other aircraft related jobs.
“One of the first tasks new councillors will have is considering the Airport Master Plan.
“I have seen first-hand the benefits of training young pilots locally and see great potential in expanding maintenance capabilities.
“Council candidates should commit to retaining and growing the capabilities of this important regional asset.
“In February 2021 there was bipartisan support to repeal the Warnervale Airport Restriction Bill following a public inquiry in the Legislative Council of the NSW Parliament, because it was recognised the airport is valued and has potential.
“If the site has appropriate environmental guidelines, then we should back this important asset.”
Anyone that has experience in business would know that the airport will never be self sustaining. It has always been a financial burden on the ratepayers, about 200 ratepayers already contribute all their rates to maintain the site. Grand ideas combined with financial illiteracy is how councils accumulate debt that then becomes a permanent financial burden on ratepayers. Already the one off increase in rates 2 years ago to reduce the Central Coast Council debt is now likely to be made permanent. If the airport is to remain then it must pay its own way just like any other business does. How about those that support the upgrade put their hands in their pocket and not expect others to pay for their ideas.