The implementation of the Wonderboom Airport Development Plan - a catalyst for economic empowerment

Abstract

The Wonderboom Airport Development Plan (WADP) was approved in 2004 by the City of Tshwane. By 2009, detailed designs have been prepared ready for implementation for the bulk of the required infrastructure to enable the airport to function as an International Airport serving the whole of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. This included, inter alia, the lengthening of the main runway to accommodate medium sized passenger aircraft. The implementation of the WADP plan could lead to direct private sector investment at the airport in excess of R4 billion (2012 Rand) and the creation of more than 16 000 permanent jobs resulting in annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increase of more than R 6 billion (2012 Rand) to the City of Tshwane. The WADP together with the adjacent ?Rainbow Junction? (a ? 650 000 m2 mixed use economic development node) are situated in an identified ?zone of choice? and could significantly impact on the high unemployment figures in the North of Tshwane. The area in and around the Wonderboom Airport have the potential to develop into a modern ?Airport City? ? a concept gaining in popularity all over the world as a major stimulus to attract investment and lead to major points of growth. It is in close proximity to good access roads and the City of Tshwane has in recent years invested heavily in the development of infrastructure leading to the airport. The Wonderboom Airport also lies in close proximity to Rosslyn and Waltloo where about 40 per cent of the automotive industry in South Africa is situated. This industry could also hugely benefit from the close proximity of an airport with the capabilities to accommodate freight aircraft. With most of the designs and approvals ready for implementation, this development can start immediately and the bulk thereof can be completed within two to three years to form part of a major new growth node in the Capital City.