Developers have unveiled the first design images for the proposed redevelopment of Bermuda’s airport.

The new steel and glass terminal building will be set back at the far west or Stone Crusher Corner end of the present runway and will be built on higher ground to reduce the risk of flooding.

The facility will continue to house pre-clearance for US customs and immigration as well as enclosed passenger bridges to aircraft.

Bob Richards, the Minister of Finance, and Senator Michael Fahy, the Minister of Transport and Tourism, joined Martin Zablocki, president of Canadian Commercial Corporation, and Steve Nackan, president of Aecon Concessions, for the official unveiling of the renderings at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

Mr Nackan described the design as “smart and beautiful” and maintained it was “consistent with Bermuda’s global brand and identity”.

He also revealed plans for a putting green and nature trail outside the airport, adding: “Bermudian culture is on display throughout, including kites and indigenous birds suspended from the ceiling”.

“The airport will be surrounded by lush landscaping using indigenous flora compatible with and complementing Bermuda’s ecosystem, as well as sustainable water features to create an invigorating outdoor experience that travellers can enjoy on an expansive patio.

“Plants will be sourced and grown on the island and landfill will be repurposed from the existing property.

“The design we are unveiling today marks an important milestone in the project’s progress as it represents a shared vision resulting from many months of collaboration and consultation with community stakeholders.”

Mr Nackan said the project would be a “vital generator of local employment opportunities” both in construction and operations “where the majority of employees will be Bermudian”.

Mr Zablocki insisted the project would be delivered “on time and on budget”.

Mr Richards described the latest development in the airport redevelopment project as a “very good day” for the island.

He maintained that ground would be broken on the $250 million project by the end of the year and said that the new facility should be operational 40 months later. “I encourage everyone to come out and meet some of the people involved and ask questions so that you can truly understand the unique value of the proposals and the design,” Mr Richards said.

Mr Fahy added: “We’re not just designing an airport, we’re building Bermuda’s future.”

The new airport designs will be on display at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute today and Saturday between 9am and 5pm.

They will be then be moved to the Port Royal Golf Course on July 18 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm and on to Penno’s Wharf in St George on July 19 at the same time.