HIAL is investing £500,000 in coastal protection works at Benbecula Airport.

A 500 metre stretch of coastline will be reconstructed and landscaped using gabion metal cages filled with rock in the first phase of the scheme following advice from Glasgow-based Pick Everard Consulting Engineers Limited.

The contract to carry out the work has been awarded to Aggregate Industries (UK) Limited of Stornoway.

John Hay, manager for HIAL's western region said: "Wave and storm action has gradually eroded the coastline bordering Benbecula Airport in recent years. The coastal protection work will ensure this problem does not encroach on operational areas of the airfield and will protect the runway and landing lights at the airport. Work will begin on site shortly and members of the public are reminded to avoid this area particularly while the contractors are on site."

The coastal protection work at Benbecula Airport is scheduled to be completed by January 2003 and will not disrupt the normal operation of the airport.

ENDS