WORK starts 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.

It 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.

It will be equipped with the latest security screening technology to ensure passengers pass though swiftly and comfortably.

The airport’s immigration arrivals area is also being redeveloped to offer a more seamless journey for people arriving in the North-East.

In addition the pier housing the airport’s departure gates was recently refurbished to provide an improved view for passengers arriving and returning to the region.

The four phase re-cladding project has transformed the external, south facing building.

Apart from those developments, other changes are planned including a review of signage and information available to airport users.

Airport chief executive Dave Laws said: "Despite these challenging times, we’re investing in the business and, in turn, the wider region.

"The extension will create an excellent platform for future growth and development.

"We hope these improvements to our security process will make a positive difference to our customers travelling through the airport, for them to experience an enjoyable journey is a priority for us."

BAM Construction Limited 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.

Its architectural director, David Coundon, said: "We’re proud to be part of this project at Newcastle Airport, the first major building extension since 2004.

"The new build accommodates a complex mix of uses within a relatively modest area, our design must satisfy strict functional requirements whilst being energy efficient and aesthetically appealing."

Mr Coundon said the extension will present bold new façades to both southern and western approaches to the airport.

He believes that when completed passengers travelling through the security search area will experience, "a light and spacious environment."