NI construction firm Farrans has been appointed to deliver Phase One of the Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) regeneration project.

LBA announced over a £100 million investment into the regeneration of its terminal facilities which will improve the passenger experience and boost economic growth in the region.

The project that was approved by Leeds City Council is set to begin in autumn 2023 and is expected to be completed in 2026.

Farrans will add a 9,500 square metre three storey extension to the existing terminal and refurbish the current terminal building. Airport passengers will benefit from more seating, faster security, additional aircraft stands, new shops and eateries and a larger baggage reclaim area and immigration hall. As well as improved access for passengers with restricted mobility.

By 2030, the improvement works have the potential to create 1,500 new direct jobs at LBA, 4,000 new indirect jobs and contribute £940 million to the local economy.

With the installation of new heating, lighting and machinery, including new baggage belts, the project will help LBA to further decarbonise its operations, as outlined in the airport's 2030 Net Zero Carbon Roadmap.

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Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: "This announcement marks the beginning of a new era for Leeds Bradford Airport. This investment will give us the infrastructure needed to deliver an outstanding customer experience, support the growth of our airline partners, enhance connectivity for business, investment and trade and provide the airport that Leeds, Bradford and Yorkshire have been waiting for. LBA is a key asset for our region and our community, our investment enhances and supports broader investments underway in Leeds and Bradford creating new jobs, new opportunities and shared benefits for our community."

Cathal Montague, Regional Director at Farrans Construction, said: "Leeds Bradford Airport has played an integral role in the ambitious growth of the city of Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region, supporting connectivity to some of the world’s best destinations for business and tourism. We are looking forward to bringing the vision for its next stage to life through the extension and modernisation of the terminal. This project will be a major boost to the construction industry with jobs created through apprenticeships, direct labour and supply chain.

"We have had a strong connection to Leeds for many years, having delivered a number of important transport and infrastructure projects in the area. Farrans opened a new office in the city centre last year and we are in the final stages of the delivery of a 20-storey student accommodation project on Belgrave Street, Live Oasis St Alban’s Place. We will continue to engage closely with community groups, charities and schools to create local employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities to deliver a positive lasting impact while delivering Leeds Bradford Airport."