Teesside Airport’s new Skybar has opened
Teesside Airport’s new Skybar has welcomed its first customers as the work to transform the terminal moves one step closer to completion.
Darlington Borough Council Leader Jonathan Dulston cut the ribbon to officially launch the new venue which will be accessible to everyone, regardless of whether they are catching a flight or not.
The scheme has seen ageing office space next to the security area landside transformed to create the bar, with an adjacent at-height viewing platform due to be completed later this year.
The bar has great views right across the runway to give passengers and public alike the chance to see, in comfort and style, the growing number of flights that will depart and arrive at Teesside. As with the Landside Café, anyone who makes a purchase in the new Skybar will receive two hours of free parking.
Designed by Darlington-based architects Corstorphine & Wright, work has been carried out by local firms Wharton Construction, 186 Property Solutions and ADL Developments, all of which were involved in the terminal’s wider multimillion-pound redevelopment.
One person excited about the opening is Brian Robinson, Chair of Teesside Airport Consultative Committee and Friends of Teesside Airport. He attended the launch event with his wife, Dawn, and said: “The terminal is an incredibly special place for us, as our first date was in the airport bar 49 years ago. It’s wonderful to see even more of the building being brought back into use and hopefully it will help to make memories for many others for years to come.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Last year we overhauled our terminal to make it even better for the thousands of new passengers we’ve welcomed as part of our bigger and better 2022 summer season but we didn’t stop there, and are now improving our facilities for the general public too.
“We’re already seeing more and more people from the local community and businesses popping into the Landside Café and this, combined with our new soon-to-be-open viewing platform, will provide another real draw for visitors.”
Cllr Jonathan Dulston, Leader of Darlington Council said: “Since Mayor Houchen brought our airport back into public ownership and saved it from closure it has gone from strength to strength. The transformation of the terminal has created a bright, modern, and relaxing airport that is fit for the 21 century and one we can all be proud of.
“The opening of the new Skybar, with its warm and welcoming atmosphere and sweeping views of the runway, is the icing on the cake. I have no doubt it will become a firm favourite of both passengers and the wider community.”