The masterplan was not binding and it was the previous incumbent’s view of the world. While I imagine some of the airside operational proposals will be embraced by the new owners, given many were examples of common sense, as a blueprint for the airport’s strategy and direction it became instantly devalued the moment the airport was sold.
The extracts below from the LBACC meeting in July and the press in November should explain what the general plan is terminal wise. There is a lot to put right here and completing a major overhaul whilst keeping the business open and functioning is always going to be a challenge and one which requires careful planning.
In terms of
PR for Shaheen services, there is very little to be gained by making a big song and dance about this considering it’s a niche market and the security headaches it brings.
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Leeds Bradford Airport Consultative Committee : 24th July 2007.
Item 863 : Terminal Developments
Mr PW presented a presentation on the proposed developments made by Bridgepoint Capital Ltd to extend and improve the terminal building. The airport was currently facing the problems of;
congestion in some areas
layout and space challenges in the security area
the constantly changing security measures
passenger cross flow problems
inadequate floor space
too much landside space dedicated to the provision of refreshment facilities
As a result of an extensive study, changes to the terminal building were proposed which included an extension to the front of the terminal building. An enlarged security search area would be relocated to the first floor and extensions would include increased lounge areas and improved commercial facilities
Item 865: Change of Ownership
The managing director submitted a written report which provided information on the sale of the airport company. LBIA was sold to Bridgepoint Capital Ltd on 2 May 2007. Sir Graham Hall has been appointed as Chair of the new board of directors. The other board members were two non-executive directors nominated by Bridgepoint and three existing executive directors. In support of their vision, Bridgepoint had outlined a 3 point plan for the airport.
1. Route development
2. Commercial revenues
3. Investment Plan - a commitment to very significant investment levels over the coming years. This included a major development of the terminal building for which the planning had already started and on which construction should commence in 2008 for completion in 2009. This would provide the capacity to accommodate the forecast additional passenger throughput and allow the creation of the enhanced commercial facilities.
YEP interview with John Parkin 19 NOV 2007-12-31
Over the next 12 months there will be some physical changes in advance of the major upgrade works 'when people will notice the really big changes' and the plan is for that to happen in 2009 – with careful planning ensuring that it will not affect the running of the business.
"It gives us the chance to re-engineer the way this place works – make it simpler and easier to use, with more space for the passengers and a better environment; to design in a better experience – the best experience – with half an eye on the changing regulatory and security related environment that we have to deal with and that people understand.