EDGE, a leading multi-disciplinary property and construction consultancy, is celebrating the completion of several major milestones at Leeds Bradford Airport – including expanded security facilities, a new flagship World Duty Free store and new food and beverage offerings – as part of the airport's ongoing regeneration programme.
Delivered as part of the flagship LBA:Regen project, the latest improvements are helping to increase capacity, improve operational efficiency and create a more modern and welcoming passenger journey through the terminal.
The new Central Search area, departures route and transit spaces have significantly expanded passenger-processing capacity, with five new security lanes expected to double screening capacity once fully operational by the end of the year.
Powered by next-generation Leidos technology, the lanes can process up to 600 passengers per hour compared with around 350 previously, while six new eGates and a dynamic virtual queue-management system are helping to improve passenger flow and reduce waiting times.
Alongside the security enhancements, EDGE has supported the delivery of a new World Duty Free store spanning more than 1,000 sqm, doubling the size of the previous retail offering, as well as Monty’s and Starbucks within the airside departures area.
Together, these additions mark important milestones in Phase 2 of the regeneration programme, which is focused on modernising the existing terminal while maintaining airport operations throughout construction.
Gordon Parkinson, Associate Project Manager at EDGE, said:
“The opening of the new Central Search facility, World Duty Free store, Monty’s and Starbucks mark another significant achievement within the wider regeneration of Leeds Bradford Airport.
“Together, these improvements are delivering tangible benefits for passengers, from greater security capacity and improved passenger flow to a much stronger retail and hospitality offer. They also provide the airport with the capacity and resilience needed to support its future growth.
“It is especially rewarding to see these new facilities open and welcoming passengers while the airport has remained fully operational throughout construction. We are proud to continue supporting Leeds Bradford Airport on such a transformational programme.”
Steve Hudson, Programme Director at Leeds Bradford Airport, said:
“EDGE has become an integral part of the team delivering transformational change across Leeds Bradford Airport. Their agility, commitment and ability to respond quickly to the demands of a fast-moving programme have been invaluable in realising successful outcomes on several fronts.
"With a dedicated and agile approach EDGE are bringing their experience and expertise and working as one with our LBA team and wider delivery partners, they have helped us navigate the complexity of transforming a live airport and deliver significant improvements including security, operational, retail, food and beverage and the wider passenger journey. The milestones achieved thus far demonstrate what is possible through a collaborative approach and are an important part of our ambition for the future of LBA.”
The latest openings form part of Phase 2 of the LBA:Regen programme, which is modernising the airport's original terminal. Scheduled for completion in 2027, the programme will provide upgraded facilities to support future passenger growth and strengthen Leeds Bradford Airport's position as a leading gateway for the region.
EDGE’s work with Leeds Bradford Airport adds to its growing portfolio which spans several aviation clients and 450+ projects, including major airports such as London Luton Airport. Through its aviation expertise, EDGE helps airports deliver infrastructure projects that support increasing passenger demand while maintaining safe and efficient operations.
