WHSmith Manchester Airport (T2)
Structural engineering that performs - in theatres, airports, and live event spaces across the UK.
Working within Manchester Airport Terminal 2 presented unique constraints, and our focus was on delivering a robust structural solution that supported the design intent without disrupting passenger flow.
Pedro Barata
Structural Engineer
WHSmith Manchester Airport (T2)
Airport Retail
MJ Consulting Engineers provided structural engineering services for the delivery of the newly launched WHSmith 1st Hit East store at Manchester Airport Terminal 2.
Following months of detailed planning and construction, the new store is now open, offering passengers an enhanced retail experience within one of the UK’s busiest airport terminals. The project forms part of the wider redevelopment of Terminal 2, delivering a modern, high-quality retail environment designed to meet the demands of high passenger footfall.
Working within a live airport environment, MJ Consulting Engineers supported the integration of new layouts and specialist retail fit-out elements within the existing terminal structure. Careful coordination was required to ensure structural compatibility, efficient construction sequencing, and minimal disruption to ongoing airport operations.
The store features strong localisation throughout the interior design, including references to the iconic Manchester Bee, helping to create a distinct sense of place while aligning with WHSmith’s contemporary airport retail format.
The completed works deliver a functional, engaging, and passenger-focused retail space that supports WHSmith’s presence at Manchester Airport while maintaining the operational and structural requirements of a major international transport hub.
LIVE EveNTS
STAGE DESIGN
Working in theatres and live venues means there’s no room for error - and that’s where MJC stands out. We’re known in the industry for being calm under pressure, clear on site, and dependable from first sketch to final sign-off. It’s why so many production teams come back to us.
Tom Jeffcoat
Structural Engineer, MJ Consulting Engineers
Yes - with offices in London and Manchester and a network of experienced engineers, we deliver structural engineering solutions for theatres and performance venues throughout the UK.
Absolutely; heritage venues are a core part of our expertise. We balance preservation requirements with structural upgrades to support modern rigging, lighting, and performance demands.
Yes - from temporary structures and roof trims to signage and production rigging, we engineer solutions that deliver safety, compliance, and speed for live show environments .
Extensive - we've completed projects at Heathrow T2, T5, Gatwick, Birmingham Airport and Liverpool John Moore Airport, delivering bespoke structural designs that meet tight schedules and live-site requirements .
Yes - we perform ceiling void, roof, rigging point, and structural inspections to assess condition and readiness for production use or fit-out modifications .
Our teams are accustomed to fast-paced schedules. We’re regularly brought into projects during show rehearsals or airport closures - and we deliver reliable structural solutions under time pressure.
We work closely with architects, venue owners, contractors, production teams, and heritage bodies to ensure structural integrity, adherence to regulations, and build-ready details.
Yes, typically within 5 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with MJC - how we work, where we work, and what we deliver.
Structural Support That Performs On Stage and On Site
From listed theatres and concert halls to airport concessions and live venues, we bring practical structural engineering to complex environments. Whether you're planning a refurbishment, fitting out a retail unit, or navigating venue constraints, we’ll help you make it buildable - and make it happen.