Heathrow Terminal Takes Shape But Is A Long Time Coming
A lengthy permitting process for a fifth terminal at Londons Heathrow airport added years to the projects gestation. While straining the developers patience, the hiatus allowed time to rehearse a novel procurement strategy for the $7.7-billion project that seems to be paying off.
As the main buildings landmark roof is lifted in 2,500-tonne sections, work to boost Heathrow airports capacity by 30 million passengers a year is on time and budget, says Andrew Wolstenholme, project manager with owner BAA plc. "Weve spent $3.5 billion so far and we have delivered a huge piece of infrastructure. We are extremely pleased to be where we are," he says.