LONDON CITY AIRPORT ANNOUNCES NEW AIRCRAFT STANDS

London City Airport today announced a major investment in the growth of the Airport.  It has placed a contract worth £19m with support services and construction company Carillion for the construction of additional aircraft parking stands.  This contract is the largest to be let since the Airport was originally built and represents the first major capital programme since new owners AIG and GIP took control in December 2006.

Announcing the placement of the contract Richard Gooding, Chief Executive of London City Airport, said “Our new shareholders said at the outset that they had faith in the growth and development of the Airport.  This contract shows that they are willing to invest more to bring the growth forward.”

The contract is for the construction of a 20,000 square metre concrete platform, supported by piles and built over the King George V dock to the east of the existing terminal.  In addition, a sound screen will be incorporated to minimise any effect of aircraft operations on neighbouring houses.  Construction is expected to start in June, and the new stands will be in service during summer 2008.

Steve Critchley, Operations Director for Carillion Regional Civil Engineering said “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract.  This company were the original owners and developers of the Airport, and so it is especially rewarding to be part of making it an even greater success.  We have already constructed a Hold Point for London City in 2003, using the same techniques, so are confident that we will be able to deliver to time and budget.”