13 CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL NEWS AT ITS 26TH November meeting Central Coast Council authorised CEO David Farmer, as a matter of urgency to negotiate an aviation services lease for a helicopter hub over part of the Central Coast Airport at Warnervale with Nighthawks Aviation Pty Ltd, a company specialising in advanced helicopter training, maintenance and support. Nighthawks Aviation has been in talks with Council since they first sought Expressions of Interest in relation to the Airport Masterplan two years ago. The issue has now become crucial and they are considering an alternative base at a major regional airport in Victoria. The facilities at that airport are superior to those available at Warnervale, however, Nighthawks Aviation has stressed that their preference is to be located on the Central Coast on account of a number of factors: - • The Central Coast is a pivotal location in the East Australian aviation market • Nighthawks Aviation’s has existing helicopter operations in the Greater Metropolitan Region of NSW • Access to Uncontrolled Airspace is available from the airport at Warnervale. An assessment of the current state of Central Coast Airport indicates that, even in the absence of an adopted masterplan and in the absence of any further investment by Central Coast Council in airport operations, it would be feasible at this time to accommodate the helicopter services hub. Council says that the economic benefits to the Central Coast of the proposed investment in infrastructure and people involved in the proposal would appear to uniquely beneficial for the region. As well, it would anchor the long-term future of Central Coast Airport. Commenting on Council’s decision Nighthawks Aviation CEO Bruce Kennedy said, “we thank the Central Coast Council for their vision and commitment to the future of Warnervale Airport. Our unique service offerings will deliver much needed economic benefits and employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers alike. We look forward to finalising these arrangements and reiterate our appreciation of the great work done by our newly elected councillors.” Central Coast Airport has the potential to be a major economic driver for the Central Coast. In the end the motion was approved 8 votes to 7. Those voting in favour: Team Central Coast and all Liberal councillors: Those voting against were: All Labor councillors plus Independents Smith and Lamont Council CEO cleared to negotiate lease for helicopter operation at Central Coast Airport Central Coast airport, Warnervale Council establishes Economic Development Committee At its November 26th meeting Council moved to establish an Economic Development Committee consisting of five Councillors plus the Mayor. Notably, except for Councillors Smith and Neal who abstained indicating they were against the motion and Councillor Lamont who left the meeting before the vote, all other councillors voted for the establishment of the Committee proposed by Cr Eaton. It was not without considerable debate, having been left on the table from Council’s October meeting. The Committee will comprise Councillors: • Mayor - Lawrie McKinna, • John McNamara, • John Mouland, • Trent McWaide • Kyle MacGregor • Belinda Neal The role of the committee is to provide advice and recommendations to council on all matters involving the local economy, employment, and regional development. It will be responsible for: (a) Economic development strategies and initiatives, (b) Regional, states and national infrastructure, (c) Business and employment development and support, (d) Promotion of economic activity, (e) Ensuring timely approvals of employment generating activities. CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
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