Infrastructure upgrade works for the Townsville Airport redevelopment are underway, paving the way for the terminal upgrade to begin later this year.

The works are an important step in the transformation of the terminal, involving the terminal roof upgrade, as well as water, fire and sewer upgrades – which are required to address current capacity constraints and accommodate future growth.

Builder Lendlease is progressing with the roof works, while Townsville-based CES Civil has just been awarded the contract for water, fire and sewer upgrades, which will commence next month.

Townsville Airport Chief Operating Officer Kevin Gill said the upgrades were critical enabling works for the terminal redevelopment.

“We are pleased about moving forward with the core infrastructure works, as an important step in the overall redevelopment,” he said.

“There was an emphasis on planning and design in 2019 and this year will be a busy year of delivery for Townsville Airport.

“This is a crucial project for Townsville Airport and for our community.”

Townsville Airport reached financial close on a $50 million loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Fund (NAIF) last December.

The water, fire and sewerage works include construction of a new sewer rising main, upgrades to existing pumps, new water mains, installation of an internal fire supply main and new fire tanks.

Infrastructure upgrade works are expected to be completed by the end of the year. In addition to these works, a road project is underway which will streamline the entryway to the airport precinct by extending Meenan Street to meet John Melton Black Drive, creating a new direct, more appropriate and attractive entryway to the precinct for residents and visitors. All together the roof, core infrastructure and road works represent a $9 million investment.