A refreshed and expanded departures lounge at Port Hedland International Airport is a step closer with construction works set to commence on Wednesday 18 June.
Mayor Kelly Howlett said it was an exciting time for the airport with the interim works marking the first stage of the airport’s redevelopment program.
“The interim works program will significantly improve passenger flow within the terminal and start to create a space that is reflective of Port Hedland and its stunning landscapes,” she said.
“The Town and our contractors JAXON are committed to ensuring minimal disruption to passengers and staff during the renovation period.
“We are expanding the departures lounge to include the Export Bar and Café, refurbishing both arrivals and departures area toilets, enclosing the outside café area and removing internal walls to open the space and improve visual amenity.
“By combining the café and bar with the departures lounge, we are aiming to improve our passengers’ experience so they can relax near the boarding gate, rather than rush from check-in to the café to security screening and then onto their plane.
“The terminal will be repainted which will inject colour into the space – passengers will be reminded of the Pilbara’s stunning sunsets as well as our ocean lifestyle.”
All major works will occur overnight and all flights and services will continue as normal.
The toilets refurbishment will be completed over six weeks and works will alternate between the arrivals and departures toilets to ensure there are always a set of toilets available to the public. The arrivals toilet will be the first to be refurbished and is expected to take three weeks.
The outside café area will also be closed for three weeks as new flooring is laid.
As part of these improvements, the non-smoking areas will be extended in the airport precinct to include the outside café area and along the front of the airport terminal. This brings our airport into line with many other airport and public spaces by having a smoke-free area.
JAXON general manager commercial Mark Kepplinger said JAXON were pleased to be awarded the construction contract.
“We’re pleased to be partnering with the Town of Port Hedland to refurbish the Port Hedland International Airport,” he said.
“JAXON have over 30 years of experience working in Port Hedland and we’re excited to be working on such an iconic building to help create a welcoming gateway to the Pilbara.”
Construction is expected to be completed by early September 2014.
The Port Hedland International Airport redevelopment strategy, which sets out the long-term vision and key projects for the airport, will be presented to the June Ordinary Council meeting for endorsement.
For more information on the redevelopment program, please visit the airport website at www.porthedlandairport.com.au.