Gatwick Airport has awarded a significant contract worth £16.5 million to VINCI Construction UK, to transform the airport's South Terminal forecourt .

The three-year transformation, which began in June last year, will provide a welcoming and spacious entrance for passengers arriving at the South Terminal

Passengers will have quicker and easier access to the different areas of the terminal, thanks to clearer lines of sight and a brighter, more contemporary space with new flooring and lighting. New lifts will also be installed to take passengers to the upper level of the forecourt from the ground level.

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At ground level, a new coach waiting area, including ticket facilities and toilets, will be in place for scheduled coach operations, with coach stops directly outside the building, supporting Gatwick's transport strategy to encourage increased use of public transport.

The total cost of the project is £29.6 million and will be completed in March 2012, in time for the London Olympics.

Gatwick’s Director of Capital Projects, Raymond Melee said: "I am delighted to announce VINCI Construction as principle contractor on the South Terminal Forecourt project. This is one of our key strategic projects within our near £1bn investment programme, which will improve our service to passengers. VINCI Construction UK has a strong track record on safety and extensive experience in challenging airport environments.

"We're excited about these great new facilities for South Terminal and hope the Department for Transport gives the go ahead to the planned £53 million investment in the Gatwick Airport rail station which, alongside our investment, will deliver a real world-class welcome at the second busiest gateway to the UK."

(CD/BMcC)