The biggest ever transformation of London Gatwick’s North Terminal is now underway, the airport confirmed.
The £10m project is scheduled to be completed in early 2024 and will deliver ‘a more personalised experience’ for passengers, in line with the airport’s new vision. The update has been designed to make the terminal a relaxing place to spend time.
The modernised departure lounge will feature new flooring and contemporary seating. All seats will have accessible power points, located in different ‘mood zones’, enabling passengers to spend their pre-flight time how they choose, whether relaxing, working or shopping.
Improved sightlines and wayfinding, including a new orientation zone with unique digital artwork and content, will make it easier for passengers to experience everything the lounge has to offer.
New Gatwick branding and vision
The project, which will be the first major overhaul of the departure lounge since it opened in 1988, started on-site in late May. The redevelopment is also part of a wider multi-million-pound development programme, which includes investment in the train station, modernisation and expansion across the airport, and Gatwick Airport’s new branding and vision, which was launched in April.
It’s important that we create a unique sense of place for our passengers, not only through our retail and restaurant provision, but also the look and feel of the departure lounge
“The new features and layout will make the space easier for our passengers to find their way around and ensure they have a more enjoyable and efficient journey through the departure lounge. The varied seating areas, charging points and pleasant environment will also give passengers the freedom to spend more time doing what they want, whether they’re looking for a space to relax before their flight, do some shopping, sit down for a meal, or send some last-minute emails, “ said Rachel Bulford, retail director, London Gatwick.
New Gatwick retailers and restaurants
Several new retailers and restaurants, including The Breakfast Club and BrewDog, will open this year, bringing leading London and British brands and exciting experiential features to London Gatwick’s North Terminal.
They will follow the recent opening of curi.o.city – a new concept from WHSmith, which offers gifts and souvenirs from a range of exciting regional, London-based and global brands, such as Cambridge Gin, Biscuiteers, Kew Gardens, ZSL London Zoo and Harry Potter.
Gatwick’s long-term future
The airport is also investing in its long-term future and is preparing a planning application to bring its Northern Runway into regular use, for departures only, alongside its main runway. This will improve resilience, reduce delays, and provide a significant boost to the national and regional economy by supporting trade, tourism and new jobs, according to the airport.
Image: London Gatwick Airport
