The airports Escape Lounge currently has windows overlooking a semi view of the apron or at least part of the transit.
With the planned extension of the back of the terminal will this particular lounge remain in situ.
With the planned extension to the back of the terminal surely it wouldn't be too difficult to build some new purpose built lounges on the lower level.
I for one would never pay to use the current Escape Lounge, it's absolutely soulless.
Building a satellite 4 would alleviate some of the issues with seating in the main terminal.
I for one and many others agree, there's no issues with shopping and catering outlets. If you enjoy using them, well use them. If you're a boring old sole who doesn't enjoy them, well you can sit on the floor. I have never been in a position where I have had to sit on the floor at STN. I've always found there's somewhere to sit if needed. But personally I'm the sort of person who prefers to stand up. I don't necessarily feel the need for a seat whilst I'm at the airport unless I'm using one of the many catering outlets.
Checking in online, arriving at the airport about 60 to 70 minutes before my flight has always been ample enough. I've only missed two flights in my entire life and I've taken hundreds of them. One in 1986 (LHR) and one in 2010 (LGW), none from STN.
Who actually checks in three hours or more before their actual flight?
Unless you're in a large group or with young children I personally don't understand that regardless of what the airport or airline suggests.
Sure when I was younger and a keen spotter I would arrive at the airport really early, but that was in the early 1980s. As I'm usually a single traveller arriving at the airport 60 to 70 minutes prior to my flight is ample enough.