The Ashburton District Council is envisioning a more active and financially sustainable Ashburton Airport as it asks for community feedback on a new draft plan for its future.

The draft Ashburton Airport Development Plan proposes development of three new hangar ‘precincts’ on the 100-hectare site, including a hangar-home precinct where people can live in the same building as their aircraft.

Chief Executive, Hamish Riach, said the growing popularity of the facility, increased interest in building new hangars and the Council’s desire to see the Airport become financially self-sufficient had highlighted the need to create a long-term strategy.

“This draft Plan establishes an exciting 30-year vision for a thriving airport that contributes to our District’s social and economic well-being.”

“It also recognises that future growth needs to be carefully planned so we can achieve the best possible result for airport users, airport neighbours and the wider community.”

The three proposed precincts include a new recreational hangar precinct on the far north-east boundary, a commercial hangar precinct for the southern edge of the field and a medium-density hangar home precinct on the western boundary.

Hangar homes have proved popular in places like Blenheim and Pauanui but would be an entirely new type of activity for the Ashburton Airport. The draft plan proposes that up to 14 medium-density hangar homes could be built along the Morris Road boundary.

“Allowing people to live at the airport would contribute to the vibrancy of the area and provide the Airport with income that could help reduce the input from ratepayers,” said Mr Riach.

“We’re really keen to hear people’s thoughts around this concept and what level of density of hangar-homes might be appropriate for the area.”

The proposed commercial hangar precinct would allow for around eight hangars to be built along the boundary with Seafield Road, where a skydiving business is already located.

Mr Riach says that there’s already been increased interest from commercial operators, with the Council recently approached by a company interested in establishing a flight school, which could see around 42 more flights per day by 2025.

“We’re still discussing the proposal, but it’s an example of the airport’s potential to contribute to our local economy and why it’s important that we get a good plan in place.”

The draft was developed following meetings and surveys with airfield users and neighbouring residents. Mr Riach says the feedback from that early engagement has been valuable when drafting the plan.

“With both airfield and residential activity in the area expected to intensify over the coming years, there is an increased risk of issues arising.”

“However, there’s a good relationship between airfield users and nearby residents, and we’re committed to working with them to help ensure they can continue to co-exist harmoniously”

He says the Council is keen to get as much feedback as possible on the proposals before submissions close on Tuesday 30 August.

“The Airport is an important asset for all of Mid Canterbury, so it’s important that we hear our community’s thoughts on its future.”

The consultation document and submission form can be found at ashburtondc.govt.nz/haveyoursay