Leeds-Bradford Airport secures £160m funding package
Plans for a terminal expansion have been given a significant boost, as NatWest swoops in to offer a refinancing and capital expenditure facility, to support the LBA:Regen project.
The £100m redevelopment programme is being carried out by Farrans Construction, and will include the modernisation of the existing LBA terminal building and the addition of a 102,000 sq ft, three-storey extension.
The terminal expansion and upgrade will increase the airport’s passenger capacity from 4.3m/yr to around 6.8m by 2030, aiming to make LBA more competitive and to capture growing demand.
InfraBridge, a global infrastructure manager focused on mid-market opportunities across digital infrastructure, transport logistics, and energy transition, owns the airport, which currently connects with more than 80 destinations across 24 European countries.
Alex Tong, chief financial officer at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “This refinancing transaction is a significant milestone for Leeds Bradford Airport, providing us with the financial stability and resources to continue our growth trajectory and enhance our infrastructure.
“We are grateful to NatWest for their support and expertise in structuring this transaction, which will undoubtedly benefit our business for years to come.”
Graeme Ferguson, head of airports at InfraBridge, added: “This milestone reflects the momentum at Leeds Bradford Airport and the confidence in its future potential.”
Gazal Heda, head of debt advisory at NatWest, said: “This transaction underscores NatWest’s commitment to supporting critical infrastructure projects that drive connectivity and economic growth across the UK.”
