MACKAY Airport is set to receive a $10 million upgrade next year.
The revamp will feature a $2 million remodelling of the terminal that will create space for various new shops, including added cafes and bars along with a souvenir shop and newsagency.
The runway will receive an $8 million overlay to meet the demands of increased air traffic.
Mackay Airport Pty Ltd (MAPL) general manager Terry Simpson said the new terminal design meant the central concourse would become part of a much larger departure lounge and the security screening point would be relocated to the front of the central concourse.
“This layout will allow for an increase to the food and beverage services offered for airport patrons with various eateries, snack stores, coffee shops and bars inside as well as a snack outlet outside the security area,” Mr Simpson said.
“It is proposed that a convenience store, newsagent, gift and souvenir shop will also be included within the secure area to further cater for passengers needs,” he said.
“The airport’s observation area is something the Mackay people enjoy very much and it will remain a feature of the redeveloped terminal.”
Mr Simpson said the revamp would start as soon as possible. Consultation with stakeholders is already under way and expressions of interest will be called for in early January 2010.
MAPL manager of terminal services Sheryl de Bruyn said the revamp would be the first major upgrade to the airport since the terminal was refurbished in 2004.
“The project will be staged to ensure minimal disruption for airport users and it is expected it will be completed by the end of next year,” she said.
The runway overlay is expected to start in May 2010.
“This project will ensure the ongoing integrity of the runway and its ability to meet the demands of the growing number of aircraft movements at Mackay Airport,” Mr Simpson said.
The redevelopment is the first major project of the airport’s new owners since they purchased it on a 99-year lease from the State Government, who sold it to fund the revamp of the Mackay Base Hospital, in November 2008.
The airport is now owned by a consortium made up of Private Capital Group’s The Infrastructure Fund, which is managed by Hastings, Perron Investments and Westpac Banking Corporation, with Queensland Airports Limited acting as special advisor.