Leeds Bradford Airport commits to £100m revamp

A major redevelopment of Yorkshire’s largest commercial airport will begin before the end of the year.

Sign-off has now been granted for the construction of a 102,000 sq ft extension to the existing terminal building.

The project is in effect a replacement for a £150m improvement plan withdrawn in 2022, with LBA instead returning to a proposal for which consent was previously secured.

The consent covers new entrances, improved landscaping and rearrangement of internal features.

Chief executive Vincent Hodder said: “This £100m+ investment will deliver the airport that Yorkshire needs and deserves. It will also allow us to futureproof LBA, delivering the additional capacity and connectivity our region needs with new technologies to streamline and enhance the customer journey.

“LBA is a key asset for our region and community. This development will help to deliver new jobs, new opportunities and shared benefits.”

Hodder said that by 2030, the LBA: REGEN project could deliver 1,500 new jobs directly and 4,000 more indirectly.

Key statistics include 77% more baggage reclaim capacity and a 76% capacity increase in F&B provision.

Presenting the project, titled LBA: REGEN, the airport said: “Our region and passengers deserve world-class travel, exceptional destinations, sustainable facilities and an enjoyable LBA experience. This is why we’re investing over £100m to extensively regenerate our existing terminal.

“With LBA:REGEN, we’re ready to meet the aspirations of the communities within Leeds, Bradford and Yorkshire. This multi-million pound investment will ensure LBA is future-proofed for years to come.

“The regeneration has been approved, and we’re ready for take-off. Work will commence this Autumn, with completion expected in late 2025/early 2026.”