Airport closed so runway can be resurfaced

The Alexandra Airport is closed this week for resurfacing of its 1200m chipseal runway.

HEB Construction Ltd was awarded the contract following a competitive tender process.

The work started on Monday.

A new SteelGaurd surface will be applied to lock in the existing chipseal, reducing the risk of loose chips damaging aircraft.

This will also enhance safety for all users.

"SteelGaurd XL is an emulsion-based protective coating that provides a cost-effective alternative to other microsurfacing solutions and traditional chipseal, with an expected lifespan of around 10 years," HEB Construction project manager Dan Croton said.

The total cost of the resurfacing project is approximately $470,000 plus GST—around half the cost of the previous budget estimate, according to the Central Otago District Council.

The resurfacing had been a long-standing item in the council’s long-term plan.