BAM is to start work next month on the main feature of a £3.2m expansion of the North East’s largest airport.

The development will create additional space and improve customers’ passage through Newcastle International Airport.

BAM Construction is the main design and build contractor and will work with various consultants to complete the extension.

North East company Space Architecture is designing the new building.

The project will see a new three-storey extension to the terminal, creating an extra 5,242-sq ft of security search accommodation.

When fully operational it will provide up to 10 lanes to screen hand luggage prior to entry to the departure lounge, an increase of five lanes.

The development is being carried out in phases to ensure minimum disruption to airport users and is scheduled for completion by the spring.

Construction director for BAM North East, Andrew Warwick, said that the firm had built up a long a long track record of success in Newcastle, having a long-term partnership with Newcastle University which has delivered many buildings – it is handing over the new Student Union Building shortly – and having recently completed the innovative Institute of Transplantation Unit for Freeman Hospital, among others.