More efficient terminal proposed for Leeds Bradford Airport

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has announced it is to submit plans to build a state-of-the-art terminal, with the aim to improve passenger experience, deliver an environmentally-efficient airport building, and support greater economic prosperity for the Leeds City Region, Yorkshire and the North of the UK.

These new plans will be submitted in spring 2020; replacing the recently-consented scheme and the existing terminal building. The plans propose the construction of a three-floor, 34,000 square metre terminal on an alternative site within the airport’s boundary.

This upgrade would result in a modern airport terminal classified as ‘excellent’ by the BREEAM sustainability standard, which is awarded only to the most environmentally-efficient buildings.

Completion of the terminal would enable LBA to meet its target of net-zero carbon emissions from operations by 2023.

Hywel Rees, Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “This proposed development is hugely exciting for Leeds Bradford Airport and replaces our previously approved plans. For more than 55 years, LBA has provided an international gateway to and from Yorkshire. Our vision is to serve our region as a truly outstanding airport and to profoundly change the perception and reality of customer experience for passengers. To do this we need a terminal that meets the needs of the future in passenger flow and energy efficiency.

Proposal for redevelopment

“This proposal is not about growing beyond our predicted capacity; it is about meeting the same demand in a more efficient way, with a smaller environmental footprint; it is about creating a more modern building that can achieve operational excellence to give passengers the best experience; and it is about addressing the challenges we know our passengers face far too frequently and that cannot be overcome within our current building.”

The scheme would deliver enhanced facilities, allowing LBA to meet its expected passenger demand, with improved levels of service and efficiency. Features to enhance the passenger experience include better surface access, clean and airy interiors, improved shopping, restaurants and bars and excellent access and comfort through from arrival to boarding.

Aviation Minister, Paul Maynard, said: “Leeds Bradford Airport is the global gateway to one of the most beautiful parts of the world, so it is vital passengers get the world-class service this new terminal will provide. The new building will be more sustainable and efficient, helping the airport meet its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2023, while boosting the local economy and securing thousands of jobs.”

This is the beginning of an extensive consultative process and residents across Yorkshire are invited to submit their views on the plans in due course. If approved, work may begin before the end of 2020, with the terminal completed in early-2023. The project will be privately funded by LBA’s owners AMP Capital.