Gatwick makes progress on pier extension
March 16, 2025
London Gatwick is pressing ahead with its efforts to increase capacity with a £140 million extension to its Pier 6, which has been underway for several months.
The project, set for completion in 2027, will introduce eight additional aircraft gates, allowing up to 7.5 million passengers annually to board and disembark directly via jet bridges, eliminating the need for remote bus transfers for over half a million travellers, the airport said.
Mace is leading the build, having previously constructed London Gatwick’s 197-metre airbridge and the original Pier 6 in 2005.
This expansion is part of London Gatwick’s broader strategy to enhance its infrastructure and prepare for future growth. The airport is ready to move forward with its Northern Runway plans following the UK Government’s recent announcement that it is ‘minded to approve’ the project.
Cedric Laurier, Chief Technical Officer at London Gatwick, stated: “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, added: “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.”
