Retail outlets back expansion

Business owners in the path of Wellington Airport’s planned expansion are backing the billion-dollar development, saying the long-term plans will not affect them.

The airport revealed its 2040 master plan on Monday, confirming plans to buy half of the adjacent Miramar Golf Club on the eastern side, and earmarking land in Lyall Bay for possible development on the western side. The airport-owned Lyall Bay land includes amenities such as an extensive retail area and the popular Spruce Goose restaurant, among others.

Airport spokesman Greg Thomas said the land would be reclaimed if and when required, with the potential to expand the western apron as demand grew. It could be used for private aircraft, The Life Flight Trust, or aircraft servicing.

‘‘There’s the option to develop that land incrementally . . . The retail area would effectively be displaced, with opportunities for commercial development in the adjacent area.’’

Any developments would be years away and the airport had informed business owners of the plans, he said.

Popular cafe Spruce Goose would not need to move if the area was developed but would be right next to airport land.

However, that did not bother owner Nick Mills who also owns several other eateries around Wellington. ‘‘The fact the airport is trying to be better all the time is damn exciting.’’

The Lyall Bay retail area includes large stores Briscoes, Rebel Sport, the Warehouse and Noel Leeming.