Development Approval to build the Scone Regional Airport Aviation Visitor Attraction Centre has been granted by the Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel.

The Planning Panel voted unanimously in favour of the project with minor amendments to some of the conditions of consent.

A public meeting was held by the Planning Panel in Scone on Wednesday 6 November 2019, with a majority of speakers in favour of the project.

Upper Hunter Shire Council Mayor Wayne Bedggood thanked the many community members who have supported the airport upgrade.

“Well done to everyone – Council staff, community members and airport users - involved and working on this investment in a sustainable economic future for our region,” Cr Bedggood said. 

“The next step is to finalise the Review of Environmental Factors on the desperately needed airside facilities, and the construction tender process, so that we can start building.”

Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen welcomed the planning approvals as a major step forward in the development of the Scone Airport.

“I welcome the decision and the long term benefits for Scone and the Upper Hunter in providing jobs and attracting visitors to our area. This development allows for the continued diversification of our local Upper Hunter economy and a bright future,” he said.

The $23.5M project includes airside work to meet Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements and construction of a new terminal and Warbird Aviation Visitor Attraction. The project is funded through grants from the NSW Government ($6.5M from the Drought Stimulus Package and $6.25M from Restart NSW Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund) and a $10.75M loan taken by Upper Hunter Shire Council.

The upgrade will allow for the future growth of airport activities including emergency services and business operations.  The airport supports the equine, mining, farming, tourism and other industries and provides lifesaving aviation emergency services including Air Ambulance, Westpac Helicopter, Child Flight, Rural Fire Service and NSW Police.