11 August 2006

First Step in Ohakea Redevelopment

Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott has welcomed today's contract signing with Beca Carter Hollings and Ferner Ltd (Beca) as the fist major step in the redevelopment of RNZAF Base Ohakea.

The base near Bulls is being extended to accommodate personnel and equipment from Whenuapai so the Air Force can consolidate its operations at Ohakea. The contract signed by representatives from Beca and the Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae, commissions Beca to create a master plan for the redevelopment of Ohakea. "The consolidation of operations at Ohakea and the redevelopment of the base will create a modern and efficient platform for the Air Force to move into the future," said Air Vice-Marshal Lintott.

As prime consultant, Beca will assist in the complex planning, design and procurement process as well as develop a cost estimate for the project.

"Significant improvements to existing infrastructure and additional facilities will ensure Ohakea is a modern and functional base. Construction or alteration will take place in at least 68 areas; this includes facilities for the Air Force's new NH90 helicopters."

"Beca consultants have already begun work gathering information for the master plan, which will then be presented to Cabinet," he said.

ENDS

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