London Gatwick Airport is set to revolutionize air travel with a £140 million expansion of Pier 6, boosting capacity, efficiency, and sustainability by 2027.

London Gatwick Airport is set to revolutionize its infrastructure with a £140 million expansion of Pier 6, an ambitious project designed to enhance capacity, improve efficiency, and elevate sustainability. The airport’s latest development will introduce eight new aircraft gates adjacent to its runways, allowing 7.5 million passengers to board and disembark directly from their aircraft each year. The project, slated for completion in 2027, marks a significant step in London Gatwick’s long-term growth strategy.

A Game-Changer for Passenger Convenience

One of the most notable improvements will be the elimination of over 500,000 annual coach transfers, as passengers will no longer need to be transported to remote stands. The shift will result in a reduction of 12,000 bus journeys per year, minimizing congestion and enhancing the overall airport experience.

Eco-Friendly Innovation Driving the Design

London Gatwick is setting new standards in eco-friendly construction with this expansion. The project is on track to achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” rating overall and an “Outstanding” rating for energy and water efficiency.

Several key design changes are driving sustainability gains:

• A 40% reduction in embodied carbon by transitioning to a hybrid steel and timber frame structure.
• Ventilation system enhancements that use less ductwork and plant equipment.
• Material efficiency improvements that contribute to an additional 20% reduction in carbon footprint.

By reimagining the layout of the extension, designers reduced the width of the building and relocated service roads to allow for a two-story structure instead of three, further contributing to sustainability targets.

World-Class Expertise Leading the Construction

The extension is being built by Mace, a global leader in construction and infrastructure projects. Mace previously built London Gatwick’s groundbreaking 197-meter airbridge and the original Pier 6 in 2005. Partnering with WSP and Pascall & Watson for engineering and architectural design, the company is set to navigate the complexities of constructing in the heart of one of the world’s busiest airports. Enabling works are currently being executed by PJ Hegarty.

London Gatwick’s Vision for the Future

This expansion is part of a broader strategic growth plan for London Gatwick. Following the UK Government’s recent announcement that it is ‘minded to approve’ the airport’s Northern Runway project, London Gatwick is poised to deliver significant capacity increases to meet rising passenger demand.

With state-of-the-art infrastructure, passenger-friendly enhancements, and a firm commitment to sustainability, London Gatwick is not only expanding but reshaping the future of air travel in the UK.

Cedric Laurier, Chief Technical Officer, London Gatwick said: “This build is complex as it’s right in the heart of our airfield, but we’re experienced in delivering major projects in challenging environments at London Gatwick. The partnership and experience from Mace will be invaluable. Our teams are already working side-by-side to deliver what we think is a cutting-edge design for an airport building in terms of embodied carbon savings.  

“Once complete, more than seven million passengers will have a seamless airport experience, and our airlines will benefit from improved airfield efficiency as the extended pier is located conveniently beside the airport’s runway.” 

Nigel Cole, Managing Director, Infrastructure, Mace Construct, said: “Using the latest sustainable construction techniques, this extension project will add much needed capacity to London Gatwick and benefit not just the wider economy but also the local community.    

“Having built the original Pier 6 and link bridge, we know that working in a busy operating environment takes thorough planning and specialist experience, and this latest appointment sits alongside our existing projects within the baggage halls to provide new employment opportunities throughout the supply chain. This will include work experience placements, apprenticeships, and roles for local people not in education, employment or training.”

The post London Gatwick Airport Sets New Sustainability Benchmark with Over Hundred Million Pound Pier 6 Expansion Featuring Eco-Friendly Designs and a Forty Percent Reduction in Carbon Footprint appeared first on Travel And Tour World.