Sydney Airport welcomes Infrastructure NSW report

Sydney Airport has welcomed the release of Infrastructure NSW’s state infrastructure strategy, saying that the plan provides a cost effective strategy for the development of the state’s road and transport network over the next 20 years.

“Infrastructure NSW has rightly recognised Sydney Airport’s importance to the state’s economy and that it will remain the state’s primary airport now and into the future,” Sydney Airport chief executive officer Kerrie Mather said.

“The report recognises that it would be prudent to earmark a site that may be needed in Western Sydney for a secondary airport. The report also confirms that Sydney Airport itself has ample capacity to meet forecast future demand, but that additional investment by the NSW Government in the surrounding transport infrastructure and new public transport services is required to provide a better experience for people coming to the airport.

“Sydney Airport is an important driver for the economy and tourism, contributing $16.5 billion a year to the state and employing more than 16,000 people.

“The report recognises that the NSW Government needs to improve access to the airport, by enhancing public transport options and making changes to the road network.

“We have long supported a reduction in the rail fare for the train that services the airport stations, as well as increasing the number of public bus services.

“Sydney Airport is strongly supportive of the recommendation to build West Connex as a vital link in Sydney’s road network. This will significantly reduce travel times for users of the airport and the general road network.