Major airport investment approved paving the way for commercial flights near Kilkenny

Waterford City and County Council (WCCC) has approved a landmark investment proposal that will secure the future of Waterford Airport and deliver a transformative €30 million redevelopment project fully funded through private investment and re-establish a regional airport just south of Kilkenny.

The proposal, which was brought forward by the Bolster Group and is being advanced through a new company, Waterford Airport Ltd (WAL), will deliver the full Airport Development works set out in the existing Business Plan, without the need for Government funding.

This includes a major runway extension and infrastructure upgrades that will enable the return of commercial passenger services to the airport.

Cllr Seamus Ryan, Mayor of Waterford City and County, welcomed the decision, saying; “This is a historic day for Waterford and for the entire South East. Waterford Airport is a critical piece of regional infrastructure, and I am confident this €30 million investment will lead to a return of commercial air services to Waterford.”

“This represents a huge vote of confidence in Waterford and is a game changer for the region. It will help us attract further inward investment, create jobs, drive tourism and bring the South East closer to the world,” he outlined.

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The Airport Development Works will commence early next year and will take approximately 12 months to complete. They include extending the existing runway to 2,287 metres and widening it to 45 metres so that it can land large jet planes, expanding car parking facilities and terminal and ground equipment upgrades.

The project will pave the way for the return of scheduled passenger services by the end of 2027, with a target of handling upwards of 400,000 passengers annually within five years, as set out in the Airport Business Plan.

Mayor Ryan added, “The Council has been steadfast in its support for Waterford Airport over many years. This investment represents the best possible outcome - securing the airport’s future, ending the requirement for ongoing Council subvention, and securing significant private investment without cost to the Exchequer.”

“It will transform Waterford Airport into a commercially viable regional airport that serves over half a million people across the South East”.

The Council has approved key resolutions to enable the investment, including the disposal of lands and the waiving of a previous loan of €670,000. The Council made these decisions on strong economic and social grounds, as outlined in a report presented by the Council’s Chief Executive, Sean McKeown, including inward investment, improved regional connectivity and tourism.

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