Watson Batty Architects has been awarded the design contract for Leeds Bradford Airport's (LBA) new £12.5 million extension.

LBA's terminal building will be extended, including a transformed international arrivals process, with immigration, baggage reclaim and customs. The extension will also accommodate improved departure gates, seating areas and new retail and food and beverage outlets.

It is expected to be complete in late 2019.

Once complete, work will move to remodel the existing terminal building to provide a new centralised security search area and a more intuitive departure lounge layout, with an expanded new retail offer. Work is scheduled for completion by summer 2020.


A future phase will include the completion of the departure pier, replacing the current passenger walkway. The planned extension works will deliver additional job opportunities at the Airport for local people, including apprenticeship roles in key operational areas.

Peter White, Managing Director at Watson Batty said: "We are delighted to cement our partnership with Leeds Bradford Airport with our biggest project to date. We have worked closely with the team at LBA over the last six years, assisting with detailed collaboration and consultation, to support a series of enabling projects, both airside and landside. It is rewarding to know that our transport expertise is helping to build the future of a critical northern hub."

(CM/MH)