Laing O'Rourke expanding Manchester Airport
When Cranfield University joined Future Cities Forum last year to talk about 'airports as destinations' we knew that there was no turning back from this idea. At the same conference Paul Westbury, Group Technical Director of Laing O'Rourke, spoke of the importance of and investment into off-site modular construction techniques that save money and time.
Laing O'Rourke is now working on the Manchester Airport Transformation Programme, that will see the airport significantly enhance and expand its facilities, improving customer experience and positioning it as the global gateway for the North of England.
As part of the 10 year transformation programme, the company is delivering a £570 million package of works which includes the design and construction of an extension to the existing Terminal 2 building, more than doubling its current size, as well as a new 3,800 space multi-storey car park, significant upgrades to the airport's landscaping and road infrastructure, as well as the initial two new piers for arrivals and departures.
Drawing on its' experience of delivering major complex projects in the aviation sector, including Heathrow's Terminals 2A and 5, Laing O'Rourke is using Digital Engineering, phasing critical elements of work to ensure that Manchester Airport's operations remain unaffected throughout the construction.
It is the largest contract awarded by the Manchester Airports Group and Terminal 2's footprint is to increase by 150%. There will be a new international departure lounge with 50 food, beverage and retail outlets.
Image courtesy of Laing O'Rourke