When Citizen reporter Robert Barron wrote that a study commissioned by the Cowichan Valley Regional District deemed a new airport in Duncan “feasible” members of the community took to social media with their opinions on why it wasn’t welcomed.
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“What a ridiculous idea! (And I’m someone who flies on a regular basis!)” said Madelaine Shirley.
Leslie Mallett Van Gorkom agreed.
“Madelaine Shirley me too! Honestly do we have to have major noise EVERYWHERE??” she said.
The report recommends that current and future regional planning initiatives undertaken within the CVRD consider the potential benefits of a multi-use regional air transport facility which, along with commercial uses, would also provide essential air services, including air ambulance, search and rescue, emergency evacuation, and forest fire response.
According to a study prepared by Dillon Consulting Ltd., there is sufficient demand for a new airport, but citizens argue there are more pressing transportation issues already on the ground.
“A bridge between Mill Bay and Brentwood Bay is probably the best infrastructure choice that we could make. Faster access to YYJ and a viable alternative to the inevitable problems on the Malahat,” wrote Anthony Hull.
“Nanaimo airport is close and Maple Bay has float planes,” wrote Jamie MacDougall. “We [need] a bypass for the highway around town more than a new airport.”
That comment got more likes than any other post on the page.
“More noise? No! Invest in what is desperately ‘needed’ such as a vehicle bypass through Duncan?” wrote Jo Nelson.
“Let’s get the train first and use it to get to Nanaimo Airport,” wrote John Appleby.
“Why don’t you concentrate on a better road to get through Duncan first! I think that would be money better spent,” wrote Susan Margetts.
“How about a corrections style rehab facility instead of an airport or 30 million dollar concrete cop shop,” offered Russell Bissett.