Nelson Airport resolves final Project 2-Zero appeal

Nelson Airport and the Tāhunanui Business and Citizens Association (TBCA) have come to an agreement that will see the TBCA settle its appeal against Project 2-Zero, a planning framework that will enable a runway extension at the airport.

Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook said the Environment Court would now be asked to endorse the agreement reached by the parties.

“This is great news for the future of Nelson’s air connections and allows the airport to meet the needs of this region for a long time to come. Project 2-Zero enables a runway extension in due course to allow airlines to bring more aircraft and flight options here. It also introduces best practice zoning and planning controls that protect and enable the airport's ability to operate effectively.”

Brendan commended the TBCA for their advocacy for the Tāhunanui community.

As a result of the discussions, Nelson Airport has agreed to:

• Change the policy framework for replacements and additions to existing dwellings in the noise contours
• Clarify the wording of other planning controls to ensure clear interpretation
• Establish a contestable community fund to support Tāhunanui community initiatives
• Prepare technical information regarding acoustic insulation for landowners and developers in the air noise contours
• Increase community representation on the Nelson Airport Noise Environment Advisory Committee
• Investigate potential for use of Engineered Materials Arrestor System (EMAS) as part of the runway extension.

Updated planning controls for properties within the airport’s “noise contours” will come into effect once incorporated into the Nelson City Council’s Resource Management Plan.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith commended the TBCA and Nelson Airport on a resolution that provides a good outcome and certainty for Nelson and the Tāhunanui community.

“There is an inevitable impact on the Tāhunanui community from the airport and the community funding and additional support in this agreement will help alleviate this.

“The resolution of this last appeal now means that Plan Change 30 and the Airport's amendments to its designation, enabling the future runway extension, will proceed. Council will formally make the Plan Change operative following the Environment Court signoff.”

TBCA chair Jacinda Stevenson said substantial mediation and negotiations had led to an agreement with several amendments to the planning provisions.

“We are particularly pleased that there is now a clear pathway for people living or working within the Airport Effects Control Overlay (AECO) to make replacement or additions to their homes and businesses.

“We are now looking forward to working positively with the airport into the future. We were never against future-proofing the airport – but it was important to advocate for the community’s interests.”