Heathrow cuts space for shops to speed up the security queues

Baa will scrap some shops at Heathrow airport in a bid to cut security queues. It comes after continual complaints from passengers about delays.

Retail generates about half BAA's revenue. But critics say the space given over to shops means passengers are getting stuck at security checkpoint bottlenecks.

Following criticism from customers, politicians, regulators and airlines, BAA has decided to remove shops to make space for extra security lanes. Two stores in Terminal 3, one of the airport's most congested areas, will go to make room for two more lanes.

Floor space for some of the 30 other shops in the terminal will be reduced. Four stores will be transformed into food outlets. BAA said the changes would create 130 extra seats in Terminal 3, but would not say how many would be in restaurants or in public areas.

In Terminal 5, which opens in spring, a planned gastropub and spa will make way for six extra security checkpoints. BAA chief executive Stephen Nelson told the Guardian: "We are continually looking to balance the need to provide more security channels and seating areas with the needs of passengers who want to use shops."

Paul Charles, communications director at Virgin Atlantic, said: "Stripping out shops will make a big difference to the speed at which passengers get to departure gates."