Speke Airport

The closure of the original terminal was due to operational and economic reasons. The 1930s-era building and its associated apron were becoming inadequate for the demands of modern aviation, including larger jet aircraft and increasing passenger volumes. A new, larger, and more modern passenger terminal and apron were constructed on the south side of the airfield, better positioned for runway access and future expansion. Operations were transferred to this new facility upon its completion.

The site of the original terminal and apron is no longer used for aviation. The historic Art Deco terminal building has been meticulously restored and repurposed into the Crowne Plaza Liverpool - John Lennon Airport hotel, which opened in 2001. The former aircraft apron is now the hotel's car park and a public space. The surrounding area has been developed into the Estuary Commerce Park, featuring offices and light industrial units. Several vintage aircraft, including a Bristol Britannia, are preserved on static display near the old terminal as a tribute to the airport's heritage.

Opened on July 1, 1933, Speke Airport was one of the UK's first modern municipal airports. Its iconic, Grade II listed Art Deco terminal building, which opened in 1937, is a famous architectural landmark. During World War II, the airport was requisitioned and became RAF Speke, playing a vital role in the Battle of the Atlantic and housing a shadow factory that produced thousands of bomber aircraft like the Bristol Blenheim and Handley Page Halifax. In the 1960s, the airport gained worldwide fame as the backdrop for scenes of 'Beatlemania,' with thousands of fans gathering on the waving balcony to see The Beatles depart and return from international tours. It handled a mix of domestic and European scheduled and charter flights throughout its operational life.

There are zero plans or prospects for reopening the original terminal site for aviation operations. The infrastructure has been completely redeveloped, the historic terminal building is a protected structure with a successful new use as a hotel, and all airport functions are consolidated at the modern Liverpool John Lennon Airport (EGGP/LPL) facility nearby.