Plans for a new, state-of-the-art terminal extension at Leeds Bradford Airport welcomed

14 September 2018

Cllrs Susan Hinchcliffe and Judith Blake have welcomed plans for a new, state-of-the-art terminal extension at Leeds Bradford Airport.

Responding to the announcement that the next phase of the Airport's redevelopment plan is a multi-million pound, three-storey extension to its terminal building, Combined Authority Chair Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, said: "The airport is already a major contributor to the city region economy and we welcome this significant new investment.

"It will enhance the experience for existing and new passengers as new routes are introduced. In turn, these will open up additional markets for local businesses."

Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor Judith Blake, said: "We very much welcome these plans for a terminal extension and improved facilities at Leeds Bradford Airport, and we look forward to seeing them come forward for full consideration by Leeds City Council's plans panel. The airport is a key element of the Leeds and wider regional economy, and we are fully committed to supporting its growth."

When completed, in late 2019, the new extension will transform the Airport's international arrivals process, including immigration, baggage reclaim and customs. It will also accommodate new, larger departure gates, seating areas and new retail and food & beverage outlets.

David Laws, Chief Executive at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: "These really are exciting times for this airport and we are delighted to be able to now share our plans for phase two of our terminal redevelopment.

"This new extension will transform the experience for both departing and arriving passengers whilst also adding a sense of place and pride throughout the terminal, as we want to play our part in creating a great first impression for inbound visitors.

"A thriving region needs a thriving airport and we hope the people of our great county will see these latest plans as a real statement of intent as we continue to strive to create an airport Yorkshire can be proud of.

"Work continues to improve our route offering for both business and leisure services and we hope to have more exciting announcements in the near future as we look to open up Yorkshire to new global opportunities."

After the extension is finished, work to re-modelling the existing terminal building will start. This will provide a new security central search area, enhanced check-in facilities, and a simplification of the customer journey through the existing departure lounge, which will also include new retail and food and beverage offers. These works are expected to be complete for summer 2020.

The final phase will include the construction of a new pier, replacing the current passenger walkway with a two-storey structure, housing arrivals and ground level, and departures being processed at additional new boarding gates on the first floor.

As part of its redevelopment plans, the airport is inviting people to contribute to the future development of their airport. In addition to a three-week consultation period, airport officials will be hosting a drop-in event at the Britannia Hotel in Bramhope on Thursday 27 September and the proposals will now go through Leeds City Council's planning process.