Transwede
"BA do need to reduce the amount of check in counters they use. They currently occupy, I think 20-24 and for the amount of internet/self service checkin, there is no need to occupy so much space. Or is there???"
Not on current volumes. They are holding on to space and the airport, as ever, will not challenge them. What other carrier has the amount of desks and floor space they occupy for the number and size of flights?
Did the Airport plan phased extensions before building the current extension? The space is there so it would seem possible without too much disruption to the current facility. It is whether they had the foresight to do it back in whenever (?).
I do recall a battle to get the escalators moved to their current position from their planned position of 'up' at one end and 'down' at the other with a skywalk between. Ah, architects, don't you just love 'em!!