Ashbe Construction secures Jersey Airport terminal upgrade contract

Jersey-based contractor Ashbe Construction has been appointed by Ports of Jersey to deliver a £10m (€11.7m) departure lounge refurbishment at Jersey Airport, forming a key element of the port authority's wider programme to modernise the terminal building originally constructed in 1997.

The Times Jersey reported that work on the project commenced in January, with the first phase of the refurbished lounge scheduled to open in summer 2026 and the full facility expected to welcome passengers by summer 2027. The Trinity-based contractor will oversee the redevelopment programme across the phased delivery timeline.

Ben Cairney, managing director of Ashbe Construction, said the firm was honoured to secure the contract and described the scheme as significant for the island. He noted that as a Jersey company, it holds special meaning to contribute to improving the island's primary gateway for arriving and departing passengers.

Matt Thomas, chief executive of Ports of Jersey, said the contractor appointment represents an important step forward for the redevelopment. He emphasised the project extends beyond visual refresh, focusing on upgrading essential infrastructure that has been in place for nearly three decades whilst creating more comfortable and enjoyable space for passengers ahead of their journeys.

The departure lounge refurbishment addresses facility standards and passenger experience requirements at Jersey's main air terminal, which serves as the island's primary international transport connection. The phased approach allows continued operations throughout the construction period, maintaining service levels during peak travel seasons.

Ports of Jersey operates under a commercial mandate whilst serving as the island's aviation infrastructure provider, balancing operational requirements with capital investment programmes across its airport and harbour facilities. The terminal modernisation reflects ongoing investment in Channel Islands aviation infrastructure.

View the full details on the project specifications and delivery timeline for the departure lounge upgrade.