London Gatwick: Bachy Soletanche completes foundations for Pier 6 extension

To address the rise in air traffic and enhance the passenger experience, London Gatwick has launched a major extension of its Pier 6. The project includes the addition of eight new boarding gates, enabling 7.5 million passengers per year to access aircraft directly, without relying on buses. By eliminating over 12,000 shuttle trips annually, this infrastructure will contribute to smoother, more efficient, and more sustainable airport operations.

Entrusted to Bachy Soletanche, the foundation works took place over a two-month period and involved a Liebherr LB24 drilling rig to install more than 200 continuous flight auger (CFA) piles across three platform levels. The in-house design team optimised the geotechnical design by reducing the length and diameter of the piles and the depth of the platforms, thus limiting material use and significantly cutting carbon emissions.

Sustainability was embedded at every stage. The use of low-carbon CIII/B concrete resulted in savings of approximately 40 tonnes of CO₂. In addition, reducing crane usage helped save 1,500 litres of fuel, and sourcing was done through approved local airside suppliers, further strengthening the low-carbon approach.

Working in such an environment requires high-precision logistics and strict adherence to safety protocols: specific permits, height restrictions, and multi-stakeholder coordination. To enhance safety and efficiency, Bachy Soletanche implemented innovative methods, including replacing hot works with hydraulic rebar cutters.

The Pier 6 extension is scheduled for completion in 2027.

“We’re proud to have contributed to such a significant infrastructure upgrade at London Gatwick. Despite the complexities of airside working, our team delivered safely, efficiently and with sustainability at the forefront.”
— Martin STANLEY, UK Regional Director