Backroom deals tie council to airport

It is seen as a clear message to developers that the council is serious about protecting the airport's future.

A few months ago the Poplar Beach development was given approval by a hearings commissioner to subdivide land surrounding the airport, despite opposition from the council, the Alpine Deer Group and Warbirds Over Wanaka.

They were concerned residential development would stymie expansion at the airport and restrict its operations, particularly the biennial Warbirds air show, which attracts thousands of visitors.But the objectors and the developers made a deal before any appeal reached the Environment Court.

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