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Planning changes linked to a future runway extension at Nelson Airport have been formally confirmed, paving the way for expanded flight options and future airport growth.
The Environment Court has issued a consent order approving the changes, which will now be incorporated into the Nelson City Council Resource Management Plan.
The council will next decide when the plan and designation changes become operative.
The court order follows agreements between Nelson Airport and parties including the Nelson Golf Club, Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park and the Tāhunanui Business and Citizens Association, resolving all appeals.
Nelson Airport board chair Quinton Hall says the decision marks a significant milestone for both the airport and the wider region.
“Nelson is already one of New Zealand’s most popular airports, and we know demand for connection to and from the region is only going to grow,” Quinton says.
“Our runway is very short for an airport of our size and activity levels. An extension will be essential in the next decade or so to provide for different types of aircraft and more flight options for the community.”
Preparing for future growth
Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook says the planning framework now allows the airport to prepare for future runway expansion when required.
“It’s not happening tomorrow, but now we can confidently plan for the future and ensure we’re ready to extend the runway when we need to,” Brendan says.
Brendan says a recent economic impact assessment estimated the airport would contribute $2.5 billion to the regional economy over the next decade.
“That shows the importance of air connectivity to the economic health of the region, so it’s vital we maintain and grow those connections.”
Planning changes confirmed
The approved planning changes include the introduction of a dedicated Airport Zone, replacing the previous mix of Industrial and Open Space and Recreation zoning applied to airport land.
The changes also update airport noise contours and associated planning controls around residential development, while protecting land required for a future runway extension.
New noise monitoring requirements and a fully funded acoustic mitigation package for eligible homes have also been included.
Nelson Airport now has 12 months to prepare an Acoustic Mitigation Programme outlining how acoustic treatment offers will be made available to eligible homeowners.
