€30mil deal for Waterford Airport expansion to go before councillors next week
Kenneth Fox
A deal worth €30 million to expand Waterford Airport will go before councillors next Monday, October 6th.
The privately funded proposal is backed by Bolster Group as the airport is looking to bring back international flights.
Waterford Airport is close to becoming a fully operational aviation hub following a landmark agreement that would see the runway extended and widened to international standards.
The runway extension will be subject to council agreement at a Waterford Council plenary meeting scheduled for October 17th.
It will be voted on by 34 councillors representing Waterford County wards, with a majority needed for it to pass.
If the proposal is approved, it will represent a breakthrough after 17 years of seeking government funding for the project, with the private investment removing dependency on public sector support.
Waterford Regional Airport PLC campaigned extensively for government backing, which never materialised despite growing public pressure.
Speaking about the proposal, William Bolster, executive of the Bolster Group, said: "It is fantastic to have such private funding in place, removing the need for government money and allowing immediate construction to start. I urge the Council to seriously consider this monumental opportunity for Waterford and the South East.”
"The runway extension will boost international connectivity to Ireland's South East, providing direct access to European and UK destinations for both business and leisure travellers.
"If the development is approved, it will boost tourism, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the region's economic competitiveness. It will offer closer access to international flights, removing the current need to travel to Dublin or Cork."
Mr Bolster said if approved, construction work would be scheduled to begin imminently, with the extended runway designed to accommodate modern commercial 180-seat jet aircraft and restore regular passenger services to the region.
Meanwhile, Gerald Hurley, chief executive of Waterford Chamber of Commerce: “This is a pivotal moment for the South East. The development of Waterford Airport would be a catalyst for growth, enhancing tourism, improving regional connectivity, competitiveness and confidence.
“It would also open new opportunities for investment and projects such as offshore wind energy across the region. The investment shows what is possible when we come together with ambition, passion and focus. If we get the go-ahead, it will send a clear message that the South East is ready to grow and lead on a national stage.”
