Edinburgh airport unveils £25 million terminal plan

Edinburgh airport is to expand its terminal building as the first part of a £150 million investment plan. The airport, which was purchased by Gatwick owner Global Infrastructure Partners for £807.2 million last year, will spend £25 million expanding its current terminal including the creation of a larger security area, more shops and a new business centre. Edinburgh’s chief executive Gordon Dewar said: “This investment is the first of a number of developments that will build Edinburgh airport's profile around the world, helping us to compete more energetically with other UK airports and those in mainland Europe.” The project will involve extending the terminal into space which is currently used as the airport’s coach park. The extension will also create a new access which will be closer to the airport’s new tram stop. Construction is due to start in October with the bigger security area set to open in late 2014 followed by the new shopping space in 2015. Scottish transport minister Keith Brown added: “This exciting package of investment is yet another major boost for our transport infrastructure ahead of 2014, which promises to be one of the most exciting periods in our history when we host the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup.” The airport’s board has promised to spend £150 million on facilities over the next five years which would allow it to “compete more energetically on the international stage”. edinburghairport.com Rob Gill