RETIRING Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss has approved the $300 million redevelopment plan for Gold Coast Airport as one of his last actions in office.

The redevelopment at the southern end of the airport will meet future demand and deliver better services, while creating jobs and other economic opportunities for the future.

Stage one of construction is due to commence within six months and include two new wide-bodied aircraft stands and a three-level terminal development, with four aerobridges and improved ground transport facilities.

media_camera Warren Truss.

This stage of the proposed redevelopment will be completed in late 2017 prior to the Commonwealth Games, when more than 126,000 visitors, athletes, officials, and media are

expected to descend on the Gold Coast.

Subsequent stages of the project are scheduled to be completed in late 2018 and late 2020 and include further enhancements to the existing terminal building and an additional three wide-bodied aircraft parking stands.

Airport chief operating officer Marion Charlton said the plan, dubbed Project LIFT, would boost their vision of being the first choice for visitors and locals travelling to and from southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.

“In January Gold Coast Airport welcomed over 600,000 passengers, our biggest month ever,” she said.

media_camera Passengers get wet boarding a plane at the Gold Coast Airport. Pic by Luke Marsden.

“This fantastic result comes on the back of more than 6 million passengers in 2015, highlighting the urgent need to expand our terminal and apron space.

“Project LIFT will ensure better use of terminal space and less congestion, meaning service for travellers is faster and more efficient. There will also be broader retail choice.”

In September Gold Coast Airport appointed Watpac Limited, as managing contractor for building works.

media_camera An artist’s impression of the Gold Coast airport redevelopment plans.

The main civil works contract for site clearance, drainage realignment, and apron and taxiway

construction is currently out to tender and will be awarded in April.

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills said more than 230 fulltime jobs would be created during stage one of construction, with another 180 direct fulltime workers will be required for ongoing operations.