Home   Kent   News   Article

Striking sci-fi designs for Thames Estuary airport revealed by leading architect

Designs for a floating Thames Estuary airport designed by architects Gensler
Designs for a floating Thames Estuary airport designed by architects Gensler

Designs for a floating Thames Estuary airport designed by architects Gensler

by Alan McGuinness

It might look like something from a science fiction film, but this is the latest vision for a Thames Estuary airport.

Called London Britannia Airport, it would have four runways tethered to the sea bed – and it could be expanded with up to six more landing strips.

The floating hub airport, designed by international architects Gensler, would be located off the coast of the Isle of Sheppey.

Passengers would check in at-land based terminals – and then be transported to the airport by underwater rail tunnels.

Two terminals would be on the north and south of the estuary, with a third in central London.

London Mayor Boris Johnson backs plans for a Thames Estuary airport - dubbed Boris Island - to ease pressure on Heathrow and to safeguard the UK's reputation at the forefront of international travel and industry.

It is understood that Mr Johnson has seen the Gensler plans and that they will form part of his discussions on aviation for the captial.

Designs for a floating Thames Estuary airport designed by architects Gensler
Designs for a floating Thames Estuary airport designed by architects Gensler

The Gensler-designed hub airport would be in the Thames Estuary off Sheppey

The striking Gensler designs come days after it was announced a government-commissioned report will examine if there could be a new hub airport in Kent or elsewhere in the south east - but the results will not be published until after the next election.

Last year, renowned architect Lord Foster announced a multi-billion pounds scheme to build a huge hub airport in the Thames Estuary.

Lord Foster's scheme would be built on the Hoo Peninsula and would more than double the capacity of Heathrow - handling up to 150 million passengers each year, 24 hours every day.

It would have four runways, each 4km long, and would have an integrated rail station beneath the passenger terminal.

Gensler, which has built airports across the globe, said it designed its plans in an effort to be considered for any future airport project.

What do you think of the designs? Are you in favour of a Thames Estuary airport? Join the debate below.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More