Six months after a fire destroyed one of London Luton Airport’s (LLA) main car parks, demolition is well under way, ahead of a major reconstruction project.

The blaze broke out at Terminal Car Park on October 10, damaging around 1,300 cars.

Police officers believe that the fire began when a diesel car suffered an electrical fault or leaking fuel line.

More than 60 per cent of the car park has now been dismantled, and 75 per cent of the 1,300 vehicles affected have been removed by salvage experts on behalf of insurers, LLA has confirmed.

It said clearance of the structure is on track, and is expected to be completed next month.

Herts Advertiser: More than 60% of the car park has now been dismantled, and 75% of the 1,300 vehicles affected have been removed.More than 60% of the car park has now been dismantled, and 75% of the 1,300 vehicles affected have been removed. (Image: London Luton Airport)

"A large quantity of material is being recycled, with over 790 tonnes of metal from the demolition process taken for recycling so far, and all concrete waste crushed and reused as hardcore fill wherever possible," said a spokesperson for LLA.

The rebuild of the new four-storey car park will start later this year and is expected to be completed in late 2025.

The replacement car park will accommodate 1,940 vehicles and feature a ground level drop-off zone to provide passenger drop-off, collection, and parking options.

In addition to meeting all current fire and safety regulatory requirements, the new car park will incorporate a fire suppressant system.

To improve passenger access and convenience during the car park construction, a temporary drop-off zone closer to the terminal is being developed and is expected to open this summer.

In the interim period, a free drop-off and pick-up zone continues to operate from LLA’s mid-stay car park - a short walk to the terminal building, with a frequent shuttle bus service.

Alberto Martin, CEO at London Luton Airport, said: "The dismantling of the car park has been a precise and painstaking process, and its proximity to passengers, buildings, aircraft and the Luton DART railway station has added to the project’s complexity.

"At the same time, we are working hard to deliver a number of passenger enhancements, including a second premium passenger lounge, several new restaurants and a spectacular mezzanine bar and diner.

"The airport is also on track to complete a £20 million refurbishment of the security hall this summer, featuring state-of-the art scanner technology to speed up security processing times, ensuring a simple and friendly passenger experience for everyone passing through the airport."