Passengers travelling through London Gatwick’s North Terminal will soon be able to enjoy a host of new features, as its biggest-ever transformation gets underway. Among those who will experience the £10-million refresh will be WestJet passengers flying from Canada to the British capital.

The project is scheduled to be completed in early 2024 and will result in a multitude of improvements. Passengers will be provided with a more personalized experience – linked to the airport’s new branding and vision – and a relaxing place to spend time, according to airport authorities.

The modernized departure lounge will feature new flooring and contemporary seating. All seats will have accessible power points, located in differentiated ‘mood zones,’ allowing passengers to spend their pre-flight time how they choose, whether relaxing, working or shopping.

A sustainable planting scheme will bring the outside in and is inspired by the nearby West Sussex countryside. Local artwork will take pride of place, further demonstrating Gatwick’ s connection to the surrounding region.

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 departure lounge has to offer.

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 program that includes investment in the train station, modernization and expansion across the airport, and the airport’s new branding and vision, which was launched in April.

Rachel Bulford, Retail Director, London Gatwick said: “The redevelopment of our North Terminal is aligned with our refreshed brand and vision. 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.

“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. We want to recognise Gatwick’s location as a London airport, while also celebrating being in the heart of the South East and all the fantastic things the region has to offer.”

Several new retailers and restaurants, including The Breakfast Club and BrewDog, will open this year; 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.

The airport is also investing in its long-term future and is preparing a planning application to bring the airport’s Northern Runway into regular use, for departures only, alongside its main runway. This low-impact plan will improve resilience, reduce delays, and provide a significant boost to the national and regional economy by supporting trade, tourism and new jobs.