IT may not look like much at the moment but the multi-million pound transformation of Bournemouth Airport continues to plough ahead, with work on course to finish next summer.

Recent visitors to the ever-expanding airport will have seen the impressive new terminal entrance being erected – a sure sign that the £45million project has not been affected by the rough restrictions of the recession.

After many stops and starts due to a High Court action by the New Forest National Park Authority, which was eventually shot down last year, work began with a vengeance nearly a year ago.

Since then passengers have been using an interim departure lounge, including a tax-free shop, licensed bar, a Café Ritazza unit and seating for around 500 passengers and four departure gates.

The airport has spent around £20m on replacing its navigation systems, resurfacing the runway and expanding the apron, to accommodate 11 planes and six contact stands.

Steelwork for the new departures building has also been erected, with the roofing well underway and work has also started on the installation of the walls.

And within the few weeks, the concrete for the base of the floor will also be laid.

Airport spokesperson Sally Windsor confirmed the project was still on time and within budget, with the opening date set for early summer 2010.

Once the work is completed, airport chiefs are hoping to see more than three million passengers passing through its doors taking advantage of the new exotic routes being added to the schedule.