EU funds to finance 2nd stage of Dubrovnik Airport upgrade

Representatives of Dubrovnik Airport and a group of three Croatian bidders on Thursday signed a contract in Dubrovnik for the construction of the airport's infrastructure and superstructure worth HRK 1.125 billion, of which HRK 858 million will come from a European Union grant.

The contract refers to the second stage of works to develop Dubrovnik airport.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Oleg Butkovic was present at the signing, saying this was "the biggest contract co-financed by the EU" so far. He said a bigger contract would be signed soon, for Peljesac Bridge. "These investments will have a big impact on GDP and this should give us strength and faith that future generations will stay in Croatia."

Dubrovnik Airport director Roko Tolic said works would begin at the end of the summer flight schedule. He said this summer season would be a record one for the airport, with the two millionth passenger expected at the end of the month. This year the airport saw an 18% increase in the number of passengers.

The first stage of the project, the construction of a passenger terminal building, worth HRK 476 million, was officially completed in May, while the entire project, valued at EUR 220 million, is expected to be finished by April 2019.

(HINA)