Weston Airport seeks go-ahead for search and rescue hangar

A PROPOSAL for a search and rescue (SAR) hangar at Weston Airport in Lucan has been submitted to South Dublin County Council.

The Weston Aviation Academy is seeking planning permission for a search and rescue helicopter hangar of 1,984.4 sq m GFA  (gross floor area) to accommodate two helicopters.

The hangar will also house a maintenance store, workshop and facilities, operations rooms and offices, a staff kitchen and accommodation for personnel.

The hangar facility will also facilitate maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities for SAR helicopters only.

A single-storey structure of 48.9 sq m GFA facilitating ESB substation, switch room, and security room is also proposed.

Permission is also sought for airside infrastructure comprising an apron area to connect with existing apron, refuelling areas, and a service access area.

The proposal includes a subdivided fenced compound to accommodate airside SAR support vehicles.

The landside subdivision of the fenced compound will house a generator and water tank for firefighting purposes.

Also proposed is the reconfiguration of existing emergency airside access from the R403 Celbridge Road to facilitate a dual emergency (airside) access route.

A total of 20 car-parking spaces including EV charging and disabled parking provision forms part of the proposal, along with 17 bicycle parking spaces.

A decision on the application is due from South Dublin County Council by February 12.