Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has awarded the contract for Phase 2 of its LBA:REGEN project to Farrans Construction. This phase focuses on refurbishing the existing terminal as part of the airport’s ongoing 100 million GBP regeneration initiative.
The first phase of the project, involving the construction of a three-storey, 9,500 square-metre terminal extension, is expected to be completed by summer 2025. The second phase, comprising the refurbishment of the existing terminal, is scheduled for completion in winter 2026.
Farrans Construction, a building and civil engineering contractor operating across the UK and Ireland, is already engaged in Phase 1. The ongoing work includes an expansion of passenger facilities such as additional seating, upgraded security processes, new retail and dining spaces, and improved access for passengers with restricted mobility.
During the second phase, Farrans will carry out a full refurbishment of the existing terminal, implementing the work in multiple sub-phases to maintain airport operations with minimal disruption.
The planned upgrades include the installation of new staircases, lifts, and escalators to create a more open-plan layout that aligns with the newly built terminal extension. Other improvements include enhanced passenger flow, new security and arrivals facilities, and refreshed retail and hospitality options.
Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said:We’re delighted to be working with Farrans on Phase 2 of our LBA: REGEN project. We’ve already created a strong working relationship with the team on Phase 1 and as we transition into Phase 2, we’re excited to be able to take our customers along with us on this journey.
It’s also an opportunity to let our customers know that while this important work gets underway, there will be temporary changes to the terminal while we deliver this new and improved customer experience. LBA: REGEN is the first major improvement to our terminal since its opening in 1968 and is long overdue. It’s vitally important to upgrade LBA to the world-class facility Yorkshire deserves.
By 2030, the LBA: REGEN project is expected to generate 1,500 direct jobs at the airport and 4,000 indirect jobs. The overall economic contribution of the airport is projected to reach 940 million GBP. Currently, LBA supports 2,100 direct jobs and 4,500 indirect roles, contributing 460 million GBP to the local economy.
Sustainability is a key aspect of the project, with LBA aiming to decarbonise operations in line with its 2030 Net Zero Carbon Roadmap. New infrastructure will include all-electric heating and lighting, upgraded baggage handling systems, and energy-efficient machinery. The improved facilities are also expected to attract airlines deploying more modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.
Cathal Montague, Regional Director at Farrans Construction, said:We are pleased to be continuing our strong working relationship with Leeds Bradford Airport as they progress with this important improvement project which will have long term benefits for this region. Our experience in the aviation sector has enabled us to work collaboratively with our client to ensure the airport’s operations have continued without disruption, and we will be putting in place similar plans as we move forwards into Phase 2.
