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Nelson Airport and the Nelson Golf Club have reached an agreement resolving the club’s appeal against the airport’s Project 2-Zero planning framework. As a result, the golf club has withdrawn its appeal to the Environment Court.
Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook says both organisations worked constructively to address the club’s concerns about Project 2-Zero, which provides for a future runway extension to the north and would require the airport to purchase golf club land.
“This agreement confirms our commitment to supporting the golf club to adapt when the time comes to extend our runway, including working together to consider the options for a reconfiguration of the golf course. We’re looking forward to working collaboratively with the club so we can both continue to operate successfully.”
Brendan says a runway extension remains at least 10 to 15 years away.
“The planning we’re undertaking now is to make sure the airport can continue to meet our region’s needs for strong air connections with the rest of the country for a long time to come. A recent economic impact assessment estimates the airport’s contribution to regional GDP will be $2.5 billion over the next 10 years, so it’s absolutely vital we maintain and grow those connections for the benefit of the entire region.”
Nelson Golf Club president Tony Rowe says the club is pleased to withdraw its appeal.
“We’ve worked hard to protect our members’ long-term interests, and this agreement is the result of extensive discussions and negotiation to ensure the continued viability of an 18-hole championship course for Nelson.
“The course is the only tournament championship course in the region and is an important recreational facility for Nelson-Tasman.”
Under the agreement, the airport and golf club will work together on a reconfiguration plan for the course using Nelson Airport land on the coastal side of the precinct. The plan will ensure the club’s desire to retain an 18-hole championship course, while also meeting the airport’s operational, safety and regulatory requirements.
Nelson Airport will give the golf club five years’ advance notice before commencing a runway extension, allowing the club time to plan and prepare for any changes.
The agreement leaves one remaining appeal outstanding on Project 2-Zero.
