A third group has emerged this week in yet another bid to build a Midlands international airport
A Third?
This topic is as old as the hills and with many more groups involved.
In 1970/71 The then Offaly Westmeath Independent carried a story about certain businessmen wanting to re-oen Athlone Airfield as a Regional airport.
Athlone Airfield was located at Ballydonagh, and was closed by the Army air corps many, many years ago. When moving out they dug a massive hole in the airstrip and buried 9 aircraft in it, many with engines too!(Anybody looking for Tiger Moth Spares)
In 1985 or 86, The Westmeath Examiner(I think) printed a piece about re-opening the original Abbeyshrule as a regional.(The Rustic in the Middle )
Early 90's ELAN Executives were interested in developing Mooneys strip at the Doon, they even got the ESB to bury all overhead lines.
Then on August 1st 2002 the Westmeath Independent carried a plan by Roscommon Co.Council to build Athlone Regional Airport in South Roscommon.
This plan was among the best to date as the Authorities were supplying the Land, The Building Project was TOTALLY sponsored and the management was agreed by an Irish Airline.
Just waiting now for Mary Harney to submit her plan for Ballinasloe, (Must accomodate the Casa)
Then we will have gridlock in the overhead and An Bord Pleanala will be looking for assistance!
