A major reconstruction project will get under way later this year, Luton revealed on Tuesday (9 April), once the structure has been dismantled and the remaining vehicles have been removed.

The airport said more than 60% of the car park has so far been dismantled following the fire last October, while 75% of the 1,300 vehicles affected by the fire have been taken away by salvage experts on behalf of insurers.

The new four-storey building will accommodate almost 2,000 vehicles and feature a ground level passenger drop-off and collection zone, as well as parking options. The new car park will incorporate a fire suppressant system.

The airport’s short-term car parking capacity will be restored to around 4,000 vehicles when its completed late next year. 

To improve passenger access and convenience during construction, a temporary drop-off zone closer to the terminal is being developed and is expected to open this summer. 

In the meantime, a free drop-off and pick-up zone continues to operate from the airport’s mid-stay car park.

Luton airport chief executive Alberto Martin said dismantling the car park had been “a precise and painstaking” process. “Its proximity to passengers, buildings, aircraft and the Luton DART railway station has added to the project’s complexity,” he said.

Martin added: “At the same time, we are working hard to deliver a number of passenger enhancements, including a second premium passenger lounge, several new restaurants and a spectacular mezzanine bar and diner.

“The airport is also on track to complete a £20 million refurbishment of the security hall this summer featuring state-of-the art scanner technology to speed up security processing times, ensuring a simple and friendly passenger experience for everyone passing through the airport.”