Demolition work has started at London's Heathrow Airport's first terminal building, which is making way for the development of a new £1bn replacement.

The facility, which was originally designed by architect Frederick Gibberd and officially opened in 1955, was renamed Terminal 2 in 1969 upon the completion of the existing Terminal 1. Forming part of airport operator BAA's wider £4.8bn investment in improving facilities at Heathrow, the new T2 was designed by London-based architects Foster + Partners.

Plans also incorporate a two-level departure lounge with large windows to reduce the need for artificial lighting and solar panels to further reduce energy dependency. The new T2 will provide a home for the 25 airlines comprising the Star Alliance network and is scheduled to open in 2014. The former Terminal 2 site will also be redeveloped.

BAA chief executive Colin Matthews said: "Heathrow is changing for the better, and there is much still to do. Our brand new Terminal 2 will offer a better service to airlines and millions of passengers."