Development work will commence at Newcastle International to create additional space and improve the customer’s journey through the airport in a £3.2 million pound investment.
This October, work will begin on a brand new, three-storey extension to the terminal to create an additional 5,242 sq ft of security search accommodation. The capacity will ultimately provide up to 10 lanes in total to screen hand luggage ahead of entry into the departure lounge, five more than are currently in operation. Scheduled for completion by spring 2012, the build is being rolled out in phases to ensure minimum disruption to customers.
The enhanced area will be equipped with the latest in security screening technology to ensure that the customers pass though this stage of their journey as swiftly and comfortably as possible.
Dave laws, chief executive at Newcastle International, said: “Despite these challenging times, we are investing in the business and, in turn, the wider region. The extension will create an excellent platform for future growth and development. We hope these improvements to our security process will make a positive difference to our customers travelling through the airport, for them to experience an enjoyable journey is a priority for us.”
BAM Construction Limited is the main design and build contractor and will work with a variety of consultants to deliver the new extension. They have employed local firm Space Architecture to design the new build.
David Coundon, Architectural Director at Space, said: ‘We are extremely proud to be part of this project at Newcastle Airport, the first major building extension since 2004. The new build accommodates a complex mix of uses within a relatively modest area, our design must satisfy strict functional requirements whilst being energy efficient and aesthetically appealing.
“Our solution is to create a dynamic extension that envelops the metro pedestrian link bridge in order to present bold new façades to the southern and western approaches to the airport. This creates a new architecture that sits comfortably beside both the original white tiled terminal building and the later green tinted sloping façade. Once complete, customers travelling through the security search area will experience a light and spacious environment.”
In partnership with UK Border Agency, this October will also see the airport’s immigration arrivals area redeveloped to offer a more seamless journey for those arriving into the North East. The area will be redesigned to provide a more efficient use of space for our customers and increase the number of presentation desks from four to six by December 2011.
Dave Laws added: “We are keen to ensure that the passage through Newcastle Airport is efficient, meets high standards of customer service, and is carried out in line with regulatory requirements.
“As a business, we must be competitive. By delivering an efficient range of facilities, and a fantastic service, we hope customers should never need to travel from any other airport.”
In addition the pier, which houses each departure gate, was recently refurbished to provide an improved welcoming vista for returning customers and people visiting the region. The four phase, re-cladding project has completely transformed the external, south facing building. As well as the new developments, other physical changes are planned to enhance the customer experience including a review of wayfinding, signage and the information available to customers travelling through the airport.