Waterford Airport’s proposed €27m investment for an extended runway is described as “incredible value for money,” by Waterford Airport officials who have met with Junior Transport Minister James Lawless.
This is despite growing controversy that could impact Coalition party standing in the upcoming general elections.
Transport Minister James Lawless has requested further information on the business case due to concerns about rising costs, with the project budget escalating from an initial €12m to over €27m.
Local business leaders argue that the airport is vital for economic growth in the southeast and await a potential revival of commercial services, contingent on government approval and clarity on the investment plan.
The airport the focus of a proposed €30m development plan which will see the Government match a €12m private sector investment from the Comer brothers. Under the plan the runway will be extended to 2,287 metres from 1,433 metres.
The home of Ryanair’s first flight in 1986, Aer Arann/Aer Lingus Regional served the airport in Waterford Airport’s most successful period 2003-2012 peaking at 144,000 passengers in 2008. It last handled more than 100,000 passengers in 2010. Waterford handled 13,511 passengers in its final year of commercial operations, 7,000 fewer than Connemara Airport.
Minister Lawless shared: “I understand the importance of connectivity to the southeast region and I am actively considering the Waterford Airport proposal in this context. I want to give this project the best possible chance of success.”
