A privately-funded investment plan for Waterford Airport has been approved by the local council, paving the way for the long-awaited wholesale modernisation of the regional airport without public money being spent on the project.
The €30m plan was put forward by a current major shareholder in the airport and approved by Waterford City and County Council at a special sitting.
It is envisaged that the redevelopment of the airport, will bring back commercial passenger air services to Waterford and that work can begin early next year with an estimated 12-month duration.
It is also believed that the plan will do away with the need for any Government funding in the project.
The development will include a modernised terminal building, a longer and wider runway to allow for larger planes, expanded car park facilities, and upgraded ground handling equipment.
Waterford City and County Council is hopeful of full passenger services to return to Waterford Airport by the end of 2027, with a passenger target of 400,000 people per year within five years.
