The most significant capital investment plans for Cork Airport in nearly a quarter of a century were officially launched by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin TD on Friday last. The Cork Airport Capital Development Plan outlines an investment of €200 million by daa in Ireland’s fastest-growing airport, future proofing the airport’s infrastructure for growth and expansion and placing the key transport facility on a strong growth trajectory for the next decade and beyond. The key aspects of the Capital Development Plan include the construction of a new mezzanine floor with a state-of-the-art passenger security screening area; a new and larger duty-free shop; a new and larger executive lounge; the construction of additional boarding gates; the construction of a new solar farm; the extension of the existing car parks; the demolition of the old terminal and old control tower allowing the construction of a new pier with more boarding gates and aircraft parking stands. An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin TD said: “Today is a momentous day for Cork Airport with the launch of an ambitious Capital Development Plan which emphasises the importance of the airport to both the regional and national economy. Cork Airport has become a critical component of our national transport infrastructure and as Ireland’s fastest growing airport, its continued development is paramount. I have no doubt that the benefits of this plan will only bring further growth to what is already a thriving airport.” Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD said: “Due to the dedication of management and staff here at Cork Airport, services and routes available to passengers in Cork and across the wider region have increased in recent years, and this Plan will ensure that the Airport can grow to accommodate even more demand. Passengers are also assured of a safe and smooth experience as they travel through the airport, with further improvements planned to enhance that journey. I look forward to 2025 being another year of growth and increased connectivity at the Airport.” Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director, Cork Airport added: “Cork Airport is Ireland’s second largest airport and the fastest growing. We have a USP of friendly, easy, no-stress travel with short walking distances from car parks to gate. This is a magic formula for passenger satisfaction and for that reason, and as we continue to grow, we are planning pro-actively now for the next six to ten years. This period will see our passenger levels grow up to and beyond 5 million passengers per annum. What we have announced today is a significant capital infrastructure plan not just for Cork Airport but for the entire South of Ireland region and our team will be proud to lead its delivery.” To hear more, click on the main image above  For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.