en.Wedoany.com Reported - Farrans has been appointed by Manchester Airports Group to build an airside bridge at London Stansted Airport, connecting the terminal building to the existing satellite building, which houses departure and arrival gates. The work forms part of the Stansted Airport terminal transformation programme.

The new walkway will replace the airport's existing tracked transit system, freeing up space for the subsequent phases of the terminal's expansion towards the airfield. At the heart of the transformation programme is a three-bay extension to the existing terminal, adding approximately 16,500 square metres of space for shops, bars and restaurants. Moving walkways will be installed in the airside bridge, with assisted buggies also providing transport for passengers with reduced mobility between the terminal and the gates.

The contract value, procurement route and form of contract have not been disclosed. Construction is scheduled to begin in late summer this year.

Farrans plans to carry out off-site pre-assembly in a vacant airport hangar on the north side of the airfield. This approach aims to shorten the construction programme, reduce working at height and ease congestion in the operational area. The pre-assembled components are expected to be transported across the airfield to the installation site at night using self-propelled modular transporters.

Rob Stewart, Capital Delivery Programme Director at Manchester Airports Group, said Farrans has been involved in the design, planning and enabling phases of the project. He noted that the contractor's airport experience will help deliver the project while Stansted Airport remains operational.

Glenn Gilmore, Regional Director at Farrans, said the contractor has already begun mobilising on site ahead of the main works. He emphasised that the project requires managing construction activity within a live airport environment and minimising disruption to operations.