The architect of the iconic M16 headquarters in London has been appointed by Gatwick Airport to develop its plans for runway expansion.

Sir Terry Farrell, one of the world's leading architect planners will be on hand to offer expert advice to the airport in support of its proposal for additional runway capacity.

Sir Terry, who has more than 40 years of experience in delivering major development projects all over the world, boasts building schemes including MI6, Embankment Place, the new Home Office HQ and the Deep Aquarium in Hull among his UK works.

Stewart Wingate, London Gatwick chief executive, said: “Sir Terry has unrivalled experience and a unique insight into the aviation debate and the issues which the Airports Commission will have to consider.

“Having designed major transport infrastructure around the world, including the hub airport in South Korea, he will bring to the airport a track record of delivering major transport projects whilst ensuring London and the UK gets the right solution.”

London Gatwick claims its plans for runway expansion at the airport would be affordable, deliverable and sustainable giving more certainty to passengers, businesses and airlines, as will its vision for a “constellation” of London's three main airports, Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted.

Mega hub

Sir Terry said: “I am delighted Farrells and Gatwick have combined forces on the critical issue of airport expansion.

“The 'constellation approach' of keeping Heathrow open, whilst building an additional runway at Gatwick, and in time at Stansted, transforms the debate away from the over-engineered and unnecessary idea of a mega hub at Heathrow or to the East of London.

“The world city of London, with the largest aviation market in the world, is the hub and its airport infrastructure needs to evolve and grow around the city.

“The concept of building a single mega-hub airport is at significant odds with what London needs.

“There is a reason a city the size of London doesn't have one mega-railway station but has major stations at Victoria, Waterloo, Kings Cross St. Pancras and Euston - the same principle applies to airports.”