Manchester Airport has announced a new multi-million-pound project to revamp its smallest terminal Terminal 3 (T3). The move is part of a larger transformation project begun in 2015 which involves Terminal 2 doubling in size and the closure of Terminal 1.

The project includes the remodelling of the terminal’s entrance, security hall and departure lounge, which will create more space for passengers and new retailers alike. A new 500-seat bar with airfield views is planned along with additional retail and food and beverage outlets both landside and airside, while an expanded dining area with an extra 200 seats is planned post-security.

The airport also states that the look and feel of the terminal – opened by Princess Diana in 1989 – will be updated.

The aforementioned closure of Terminal 1 – which stands adjacent to, and is connected to Terminal 3 – will also enable the latter facility to increase its footprint, adding 40% more seating in departure lounges as well as enabling the airport to roll out new security equipment.

The announcement’s timing comes as the second phase of the £1.3bn Manchester Airport Transformation Programme – a second pier extending from the original Terminal 2 building – is due for completion later this year. It will allow more than 20 new retailers, bars and restaurants to open while increasing the facility’s capacity to handle 70% of all passengers flying from the hub.

Chris Woodroofe, Manchester Airport's managing director, said: “We are proud to connect the people of the North to the world – and our transformation programme means that our passengers will be able to enjoy an airport experience that rivals that of any European capital city.

“The work we’ve done in Terminal 2 is there for all to see – and we’ve already won the prestigious Prix Versailles award for its architecture and design. But until now we haven’t talked about our plans for Terminal 3.”

Woodroofe continued: “Moving to a two-terminal airport is giving us a great opportunity to use some of the existing Terminal 1 space to increase the footprint of Terminal 3. We’re doing that as well as making some all-round improvements to Terminal 3 – so passengers will enjoy new security technology, more space, more seats, new retail and food and drink, and more. It’s another exciting step towards delivering an even better experience for our passengers and I can’t wait to see it progress.”