A business based two miles from London City Airport has won a £17m (US$21m) contract to help construct a new terminal building.
Kilnbridge, a construction and engineering firm which has its head office in Newham, will complete the civil works for the airport’s new terminal and energy centers, as part of the £500m (US$627m) City Airport Development Programme.
Business units from Kilnbridge specializing in demolition and concrete cutting, fabrication, fire protection and waste management will complete a three-year project at the airport, as the new terminal – covering 51,000m² (54,8960ft²) – is constructed.
Peter Adams, chief development officer for London City Airport, said, “Since we embarked on this £500m development program we made a commitment to ensure the benefits of our growth are felt locally and shared with local businesses wherever possible.
“Our contract with Kilnbridge, which has an incredible track record for employing locally, recruiting apprentices, and utilizing a local supply chain, is fundamental to ensuring this vital stage of work is done sustainably, and we look forward to working with them. As the airport grows, we will continue to look for opportunities to share the benefits with East London businesses and SMEs.”
Dermot McDermott, founder and chief executive of Kilnbridge, added, “Our involvement in this project will enable us to continue to provide local young people with an opportunity to embark on a profession within the industry or learn a trade through a recognized apprenticeship.
“We look forward to being part of the continued regeneration and development within Newham and share London City Airport’s and Newham council’s vision of providing the local community with a great place to live and work, both during and after completion of this significant expansion plan.”
To complete the project, Kilnbridge will utilize its waste facility in Rainham and employ new and local talent through its own apprenticeship program. On average, 8% of the company’s workforce on projects are apprentices.