£45m revamp for airport is back on track
By Katie Clark
BOURNEMOUTH Airport says its multi-million-pound expansion project is poised to restart after months of delays caused by outside organisations.
The airport improvements are due to get back on track next month, boosted by an extra £13 million cash injection by owners Manchester Airport Group.
This will bring the total cost of the expansion project to £45 million.
advertisementWork at the airport has been delayed since the New Forest National Park applied to the High Court for a judicial review of Christchurch Borough Council's decision to grant permission for the development scheme last year.
But a High Court judge shot down the action in April, meaning work could continue on building the new terminal, extra car parks and highways improvements.
Peter Duffy, managing director at the airport said: "We were originally hoping to fast track' the building work but this was delayed by various factors beyond our control, such as a need to satisfy the requirements of some statutory consultees and the application for a judicial review by the New Forest National Park."
He added: "However, now that we have this additional funding secured, we will be able to move on to the next phase of the redevelopment within the next three or four weeks."
The scope of the expansion project has been increased and will now include higher standards of navigation and lighting aids.
Mr Duffy said: "This will enable aircraft to operate in adverse weather conditions and it's an important factor when airlines are considering where they will base aircraft."
And with a large amount of the enabling work completed, improvements on the apron and runway lighting can begin as soon as next month, followed by the building of an interim departure lounge, security facilities, a check-in hall and additional car parks.
Mr Duffy added: "We are aiming to complete the whole £45 million project by Spring 2010, when we will have a modern, attractive airport without any significant operational characteristics that could limit its development in the future.
"During this time our emphasis will be on the safety and security of our passengers as well as maintaining high levels of customer service during the redevelopment process."
Last edited by loveJet; 18th Jul 2008 at 02:35.