Australia’s Gold Coast Airport has announced the commencement of expansion works on its southern terminal, which will double the size of the existing site.
The redevelopment works, which are scheduled to completed by mid-2021, will generate 1,500 jobs in the local community over the next two years, according to a statement by the airport.
“This project will change the face of the Gold Coast and northern New South Wales and deliver a gateway that Australia’s leading tourism destination deserves,” said Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills. “Importantly, the project will address current capacity issues while paving the way for future passenger growth.
“There is about $500 million being invested in the airport precinct, including this redevelopment and the Rydges-branded airport hotel, which is now under construction. From September this year, we will have three tower cranes onsite at the airport. The level of development activity is unprecedented.”
In addition to doubling the current size of the terminal, the works are expected to deliver aerobridges, additional retail space, a new departure lounge, baggage handling and border control facilities.
The airport will continue to operate while the expansion is ongoing, working with construction company Lendlease “on unique solutions to ensure the airport continues to run smoothly,” according to Mills.
“The forecasts for passenger growth at Gold Coast Airport are exciting. With almost seven million passengers expected next year, the airport and the region will benefit from this development for years to come,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack.
“This means more options for locals, and more visitors to the Gold Coast. Recently growth in international traffic with Singapore and New Zealand has been really ramping up, and South Korea connections will start later this year.
A key consideration for the project is sustainability, with the airport pledging to implement energy-efficient light fittings, lighting energy management control and condensate harvesting from air conditioners.
It is predicted that by 2037 the airport will have double its current annual number of passengers – 6.6 million – and will contribute $818 million to the region each year, sustaining 20,000 jobs.
