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The final appeal against Nelson Airport’s Project 2-Zero planning framework has been resolved, clearing the way for the planning changes to be confirmed.
Nelson Airport and the Tāhunanui Business and Citizens Association have reached an agreement that will see the TBCA settle its appeal. The Environment Court will now be asked to endorse the agreement.
Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook says the resolution provides certainty for the region’s aviation future.
“This is great news for the future of Nelson’s air connections and allows the airport to meet the needs of this region for a long time to come. Project 2-Zero enables a runway extension in due course to allow airlines to bring more aircraft and flight options here. It also introduces best practice zoning and planning controls that protect and enable the airport’s ability to operate effectively,” says Brendan.
As part of the agreement, Nelson Airport has committed to:
- Changing the policy framework for replacements and additions to existing dwellings within noise contours, and clarifying wording of planning controls
- Establishing a contestable community fund to support Tāhunanui initiatives
- Preparing technical information on acoustic insulation for landowners and developers within noise contours
- Increasing community representation on the Nelson Airport Noise Environment Advisory Committee
- Investigating the potential use of an Engineered Materials Arrestor System as part of any future runway extension
Brendan says the Project 2-Zero provisions include a fully funded mitigation package for eligible homeowners affected by airport noise.
“Once we have court confirmation, we’ll begin laying the groundwork for the mitigation programme. We’ll be providing more information about the next steps and process in the coming months,” he says.
Updated planning controls for properties within the airport’s noise contours will take effect once incorporated into Nelson City Council’s Resource Management Plan.
Nelson mayor Nick Smith says the agreement provides certainty for the city and the Tāhunanui community.
“There is an inevitable impact on the Tāhunanui community from the airport and the community funding and additional support in this agreement will help alleviate this.
“The resolution of this last appeal now means that Plan Change 30 and the airport’s amendments to its designation, enabling the future runway extension, will proceed. Council will formally make the plan change operative following the Environment Court sign-off,” says Nick.
TBCA chair Jacinda Stevenson says mediation and negotiations resulted in amendments to the planning provisions.
“We are particularly pleased that there is now a clear pathway for people living or working within the Airport Effects Control Overlay to make replacements or additions to their homes and businesses.
“We are now looking forward to working positively with the airport into the future. We were never against future-proofing the airport – but it was important to advocate for the community’s interests. Better outcomes have been achieved as a result,” says Jacinda.
