Terminal 2 Upper Forecourt Drop Off

Due to the competency demonstrated as one of three partners appointed to Manchester Airport Group’s (MAG) Civil Engineering Framework, Bethell was appointed as Principal Contractor for the T2 Upper Forecourt project.

We appointed a dedicated site team to deliver the Manchester Airport T2 Upper Forecourt project, forming part of the wider Variable Messaging Signage (VMS) upgrade across the airport estate. The project team included a Project Manager, Site Manager, and Forecourt Supervisors, supported by electrical and civils operatives. Specialist subcontractors were engaged for CCTV/ANPR relocation and VMS installation. Daily coordination meetings ensured safe operations in a highly sensitive live passenger environment.

This project illustrates a design and build approach where Bethell developed phased construction sequencing and duct installation methodologies to minimise disruption to forecourt operations. We designed bespoke phasing drawings to facilitate stakeholder approval and internal airport communications with MAG. Technical solutions had to consider the structural concrete deck beneath the forecourt and shallow duct routes were incorporated to avoid hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) bollard foundations.

The site setup incorporated pedestrian segregation, temporary traffic management, and strict phasing to maintain a minimum of 23 operational drop-off bays throughout construction. Onboarding sessions with operatives and subcontractors emphasised safety, passenger experience, and stakeholder communication.

The delivery was completed across four phases to ensure continual passenger drop-off provision. Works included installing ducting between kerb lines and main IT ducts, relocating CCTV and ANPR systems to accommodate ramp realignment, connecting server cabinets to LV feeder pillars, and reinstating pavement and carriageway finishes to airport standards. Precise coordination, careful hand excavation and technical supervision were required to avoid existing bollard foundations when installing the shallow ducting.

This is the only project to date across the MAG Framework which was delivered under the NEC4 Option E form of contract.

On completion, all ducting, cabling, server connections, and relocated CCTV/ANPR systems were fully tested and commissioned. Forecourt reinstatements were delivered to MAG asset standards, including concrete flags, road markings, and accessible bays. Handover included full as-built records, electrical certification, and ASIAD compliance documentation for installed feeder pillars. The works were completed successfully with no reportable defects and minimal disruption to the travelling public.

Collaboration is always a key delivery function when working in a live passenger-facing environment. Early and continuous engagement with Landside Operations, Duty Managers, and the Terminal team ensured works could proceed safely and efficiently. Phased planning and stakeholder workshops allowed the airport to maintain critical drop-off capacity throughout. The professional management of passenger flows, vehicle access, and subcontractor delivery showcased the strong partnership ethos between Bethell and MAG. Bethell provided an integrated framework for risk reduction and compliance by integrating both Principal Designer and Principal Contractor roles, enabling successful delivery in a highly regulated and challenging live environment.