Bristol’s royal day

The Princess Royal made last Thursday a milestone day for Bristol Airport when she opened a multi-million pound terminal extension.

The princess officially opened the terminal building in March 2000. That year, just 2.2m passengers passed through. Annual throughput this year has increased to some 6.7m in 2015, highlighting the need for the new development.

It follows a 12-month build programme and £8.6m investment to provide an enlarged departure lounge plus retail and catering brands and a second executive lounge.

A feature is an outdoor rooftop terrace with views of arriving and departing aircraft and bar and restaurant seating under a retractable roof.

During her visit, the princess met stakeholders, representatives of the local community, business partners and staff, while one of her first stopping points showcased work already under way on a second terminal extension at the western end of the main building. 

This £24m project will be completed next summer with an enlarged baggage reclaim area, customs facilities, arrivals retail and meet-and-greet area. It will take total investment in infrastructure at Bristol Airport since 2010 to more than £120m.

Work has also begun on a 201-room Hampton by Hilton hotel, also set to be completed in 2016.   www.bristolairport.co.uk

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