London Luton Airport (LLA) has appointed engineering firm Whitemountain to deliver the first major construction phase of its £100m (US$155m) redevelopment project.
Whitemountain, part of the Lagan Group, will be responsible for the construction of landside infrastructure and transport facilities including transforming the approach road to the terminal building into a dual carriageway. The project will also involve redeveloping the short stay car parks, on-airport road network and set-down area, as well as repositioning the coach terminal.
The £100m (US$155m) investment in London Luton is set to increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity from 12 million to 18 million by 2026. As well as increased capacity, the work will deliver significant improvements to the passenger experience, the latest of which is evidenced by a new security area that went live on September 8, 2015. The new area is equipped with the latest scanning and tray return systems designed to improve the speed of clearing security. Future improvements will include improved rail services, better road access, expanded shopping and dining options and a new world-class executive lounge.
Nick Barton, CEO of Luton Airport, said, “The appointment of Whitemountain shows we’re making good progress on the development. The relocation of the security search area will make a positive difference to passengers. We’ve increased the size of this facility and introduced the latest technology which will allow us to speed up the screening procedures, minimizing waiting times.”
Mark Kelly, managing director of Whitemountain, said, “The development happening at London Luton is really exciting. There is a big ambition to transform the airport and we’re very happy to be delivering works on landside infrastructure and transport facilities.”