London Gatwick Airport is set to increase capacity and operational resilience with a 140 million GBP extension to its mid-airfield Pier 6.
The project, expected to be completed in 2027, will add eight new aircraft gates adjacent to the runways, allowing approximately 7.5 million passengers each year to board and disembark directly from aircraft.
The additional gates will eliminate the need for over 500,000 passengers to be transported by bus to remote stands annually, reducing airport-related bus journeys by 12,000 each year. This is part of the airport’s broader strategy to improve efficiency and reduce its environmental impact.
London Gatwick has prioritised sustainability in the design and construction of the extension. The project is on course to achieve BREEAM ratings of ‘Excellent’ overall and ‘Outstanding’ for energy and water efficiency. Design modifications have contributed to an estimated 40% reduction in embodied carbon compared to the original plans. These changes include narrowing the building, relocating a service road to allow for a two-storey rather than a three-storey structure, and incorporating a hybrid steel and timber frame. Further reductions have been achieved by redesigning ventilation systems and selecting alternative finishes, bringing the total estimated saving in embodied carbon to 52%.
Cedric Laurier, Chief Technical Officer at London Gatwick, said:This build is complex as it’s right in the heart of our airfield, but we’re experienced in delivering major projects in challenging environments at London Gatwick. The partnership and experience from Mace will be invaluable. Our teams are already working side-by-side to deliver what we think is a cutting-edge design for an airport building in terms of embodied carbon savings.
Once complete, more than seven million passengers will have a seamless airport experience, and our airlines will benefit from improved airfield efficiency as the extended pier is located conveniently beside the airport’s runway.
Mace has been appointed to construct the extension. The company previously built London Gatwick’s 197-metre airbridge and the original Pier 6 in 2005. The construction firm will lead the project within the operational constraints of one of the world’s busiest airfields.
Engineering and architectural design were completed by WSP and Pascall & Watson, with PJ Hegarty carrying out enabling works.
Nigel Cole, Managing Director of Infrastructure at Mace Construct, said:Using the latest sustainable construction techniques, this extension project will add much needed capacity to London Gatwick and benefit not just the wider economy but also the local community.
Having built the original Pier 6 and link bridge, we know that working in a busy operating environment takes thorough planning and specialist experience, and this latest appointment sits alongside our existing projects within the baggage halls to provide new employment opportunities throughout the supply chain. This will include work experience placements, apprenticeships, and roles for local people not in education, employment or training.
This development is part of a wider programme to expand and enhance London Gatwick’s infrastructure. The airport is also preparing to implement its Northern Runway plans, following the Government’s indication that it is ‘minded to approve’ the project.
