Drag racing cars could be roaring down the runway at Oamaru Airport if the Waitaki District Council approves.
Two Oamaru Drag Racing Club representatives, Kevin Boler and Murray Clarke, outlined the plans at the public forum before the council's meeting this week, seeking permission for three or four meetings a year at the airport.
Mr Boler believed the sealed runway could support the events without damage and pointed out racing could attract young people to compete.
Car events held at the airport in the past attracted 1500 to 2000 spectators, far more than the crowds expected.
Mr Boler said he had spoken to the Civil Aviation Authority about closing the airport for events and it had no problem so long as there was plenty of notice.
Any events would meet safety standards and be run with the help of the South Island Drag Racing Association.
Toilets would be provided, the club would clean up after each event and Fulton Hogan would monitor the runway surface.
Councillors asked for a report so they could consider the request.
