Community feedback has helped shape the final Ashburton Airport Development Plan, which was adopted by Council recently.

The plan allows for development at the Airport over the next 30 years and aims to see the facility become more vibrant and financially self-sufficient.

There was general support from submitters for three proposed hangar precincts, although Councillors made adjustments in response to feedback.  Commercial activity, that’s better suited away from residential areas, will be allowed to operate from the new recreational precinct on the airport’s northern boundary rather than the commercial hangar precinct adjacent to Seafield Road.

The Council also acknowledged that care will need to be taken around density, amenity and landscaping when considering lease applications for the commercial hangar area to help retain the open rural feel that local residents enjoy.

Two hectares along the western boundary of the site will be available for building hangar homes, where people are able live in the same building as their aircraft. This will be a new activity for Airport and requires resource consent or a change to the District Plan. With a full Resource Management Act process to follow, it will take further investigation and engagement with locals before the first hangar home is built.

Airport users asked that safety be given a greater priority in the document, particularly with aviation activity predicted to increase in the future. Councillors agreed and added safety to the plan’s values, ensuring it will be key consideration for future development. They also noted that the airport’s grass runways will need to be carefully monitored for increased wear and tear, as the facility becomes more popular.

Submitters also took the opportunity to comment on a proposal from NZ Airline Academy (NZAA) to establish a flight school at the Airport. While the proposal wasn’t part of the development plan itself, councillors noted the feedback and will carefully consider it when the lease application is presented for a decision in the future.

The Council received 109 submissions during consultation, the Ashburton Airport Development Plan can be viewed on the Council’s website.