Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is submitting fresh plans to build a state-of-the-art terminal, which aims to dramatically improve passenger experience, deliver one of the UK’s most environmentally efficient airport buildings, and support greater economic prosperity for the Leeds City Region, Yorkshire and the North.
These new plans, to be submitted in spring 2020, replace the recently consented scheme and the existing terminal building, with a more efficient and sustainable development. The plans propose the construction of a three floor, 34,000 sq. mt. terminal on an alternative site within the airport’s boundary.
If approved, this upgrade would create a modern airport terminal, classified as ‘excellent’ by the BREEAM sustainability standard, which is awarded only to the most environmentally efficient buildings internationally. Completion of the terminal would also enable LBA to meet its target of net zero carbon emissions from airport operations by 2023.
The scheme would deliver significantly enhanced facilities, allowing LBA to meet its expected passenger demand, with improved level of service and efficiency. Features to enhance the passenger experience include better surface access, with the site located nearer to the proposed rail link, clean and airy interiors, improved shopping, restaurants and bars and excellent access and comfort through from arrival to boarding.
LBA’s existing terminal, built in 1965, is 15th busiest in the UK by passenger numbers. LBA contributed £475m to the local economy in 2018, employing around 2,500 people and supporting over 7,200 jobs.
LBA received consent to expand its existing terminal in January 2019 and the airport’s current roadmap signposts a target of seven million passengers by 2030.
This proposal marks the start of an extensive consultative process and residents across Yorkshire are invited to submit their views on the plans in due course. If approved, it is anticipated that work could 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.
