The Federal Government has appointed technical experts and consultants for a scoping study into Wilton’s suitability as a second Sydney Airport.

 

The scoping study will involve detailed economic, social and environmental investigations to assess the impact and viability of an airport at Wilton.

 

It will also explore the use of RAAF Base Richmond for limited civil operations, including any social, economic and environmental impacts.

 

The clear finding of the independent Joint Study on Aviation Capacity in the Sydney Region is that Sydney needs a second airport—sooner rather than later.

 

The main purpose of the study is to identify as early as possible the challenges and the opportunities of any airport development.

 

The following consultants have been appointed:

  • WorleyParsons, in partnership with PricewaterhouseCoopers and Airport Master Planning consultants, will conduct a detailed assessment of environmental and infrastructure aspects near Wilton;
  • Ernst and Young will conduct a thorough examination of the scale and nature of impacts of an airport development on the surrounding Wilton and Richmond communities, including factors such as aircraft noise, opportunities for employment and infrastructure investment; and
  • Both of these studies will be supported by passenger demand analysis undertaken by Booz and Company.

 

The scoping study is expected to take at least six months.