I couldn't agree more TSR2!
I am no more a fan of Manchester airport than I am of the other British/overseas airports I use on a regular basis however I have to admit that despite the extensive redevelopment taking place the last five or six times I have passed through the airport (T1/2/3) I have experienced no extensive delays at check in, security etc including during morning/evening rushes.
Yes, it is not pretty at the moment however I do believe they are trying to change things for the better. At the end of the day, I do not use airports for their asthetically pleasing interiors - my major concern is getting through it and to my destination as quickly and with as little stress as possible.