Airport Outlines £100m Terminal Investment

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is set to invest more than £100m in its terminal facilities with the aim of improving the passenger experience and unlocking economic growth.

Previously approved by Leeds City Council, the work is set to begin in autumn 2023 and is expected to complete in 2026.

Farrans Construction has been appointed as the contractor for Phase 1 of the project, the construction of the terminal extension.

The project will comprise a 102,000 sq ft, three-storey extension to the existing terminal, alongside a significant refurbishment of the current building.

Work will include the creation of additional aircraft stands, more seating, faster security, new shops and eateries, and a larger baggage reclaim area and immigration hall, as well as improved access for passengers with restricted mobility.

It has been estimated that the regeneration has the potential to create 1,500 direct jobs at LBA and 4,000 indirect jobs, as well as contributing a total of £940m to the local economy.

The regeneration will also help LBA to further decarbonise its operations, as outlined in the airport’s 2030 Net Zero Carbon Roadmap, with the installation of new heating, lighting and machinery, including new baggage belts.

Vincent Hodder, chief executive at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “This announcement marks the beginning of a new era for Leeds Bradford Airport. This investment will give us the infrastructure needed to deliver an outstanding customer experience, support the growth of our airline partners, enhance connectivity for business, investment and trade and provide the airport that Leeds, Bradford and Yorkshire have been waiting for.

“LBA is a key asset for our region and our community, our investment enhances and supports broader investments underway in Leeds and Bradford creating new jobs, new opportunities and shared benefits for our community.”

Cathal Montague, regional director at Farrans Construction, added: “Leeds Bradford Airport has played an integral role in the ambitious growth of the city of Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region, supporting connectivity to some of the world’s best destinations for business and tourism. We are looking forward to bringing the vision for its next stage to life through the extension and modernisation of the terminal. This project will be a major boost to the construction industry with jobs created through apprenticeships, direct labour and supply chain.”

In March 2022, the airport made the decision to withdraw its application for a replacement terminal building, citing “excessive delays” and the decision to call-in plans by the secretary of state for levelling up, housing and communities.

It announced its intention to focus on extending the existing terminal, which was originally approved by Leeds City Council in 2019.

Credit- Insider Media