GRANT District Council has awarded a $239,500 contract to an architectural firm for the design of the redeveloped Mount Gambier Airport terminal.
Elected members voted to accept the tender by Ashley Halliday Architects for the major project, which is part of a $9.2m expansion of the commercial airfield.
Four consultants were invited to submit the tenders for the design of the terminal and associated external works.
According to a report discussed in confidence but later released to the public, Ashley Halliday Architects “represented the best option” for council.
The winning tender was involved in the Kangaroo Island Airport terminal upgrade, which was one of 12 finalists in the World Architecture Festival Transport Awards.
The new terminal is expected to usher in a new era for the aviation gateway with travellers having access to a functional and contemporary terminal.
Council chief executive officer David Singe yesterday described the project as a landmark development for the region.
He said the tender for the design was the next step in getting the project off the ground.
Mr Singe said the timeline for the project had not been finalised, but it was likely to be completed over the next two years.
“This project is so exciting and it is really good to see another significant step being taken,” he said.
“While the current terminal is a lovely piece of history, we actually need to have a modern regional airport similar to a lot of other regional centres.”
He said he was buoyed by the fact the architects had designed an airport terminal recognised worldwide for its design.
“This is such as positive story for the council, similar to The Waterfront project at Port MacDonnell,” Mr Singe added.
The civic leader revealed council would also liaise closely with Mount Gambier City Council on the airport upgrade given it was a major partner in the project.
“We will keep them involved as much as we can,” he said.
“We have a very good relationship between the staff of both councils.”
Mr Singe said he felt privileged the council could use such high credentialled architects.
“The decision has been made not to do the engineering component at this stage because it is not really known,” he said.
Ian Halliday, along with airport staff, have previously undertaken initial planning studies for the terminal requirements.
Considered a landmark infrastructure project for the region, the redevelopment is expected to fuel new opportunities at the aerodrome.
The project was secured after a $3.5m funding commitment from the Federal Government and a multi-million dollar pledge by the State Government.
The redevelopment blueprint includes increasing the length of the runway to accommodate larger aircraft, including jet aircraft such as the Fokker F10 or the Embraer EBM170.
This work will also better cater for fire-bombers during the fire danger season.
Construction of a new heavy apron for overflow aircraft is also part of the plan, as well as an upgrade to the airfield’s light control system.
Terminal improvements are included for the baggage collection, cafe lounge, departure lounge, check-in hall, entrance and toilets.
