CHC helicopter facility appoved

The development application for a temporary facility for CHC Helicopters at the Illawarra Regional Airport was approved at last week’s Ordinary Meeting of Shellharbour City Council.

Mayor of Shellharbour City, David Hamilton, said the approved demountable building would be used as administration and resting facilities for CHC Helicopter emergency services crew.

Albion Park resident Sonya McKay, who addressed the council at the public forum session prior to the decision being made, said the issue was not whether the service was needed but where it was most appropriate to place the service.

“When Wollongong Council considered putting the facilities at Conniston, there was considerable concern about the residents,” Ms McKay said. “If it was an issue in Conniston, then it is an issue in Albion Park, a surburban area.

“The facility is being used during the night and has the potential to wake people,” she said. “Residents don’t want sleep deprivation.”

Ambulance base manager at Wollongong helicopter base, Andrew Ryan, said the current situation with officers residing at Dapto was not suitable and increased response times by about 20 minutes.

“We don’t conduct joy flights,” Mr Ryan said. “This is an emergency service.

“Having the facility at the Illawarra Regional Airport will allow for a much more streamline and efficient operation to service the people of Shellharbour.”