Boost for airport expansion plans

Airport managers say the railway terminal will improve access

Plans to operate passenger flights at Southend Airport in Essex have taken a step forward after rail terminal proposals were approved.

Rochford District Council has granted planning permission for the rail link, which airport managers say will form an essential part of the operation.

The Civil Aviation Authority recently confirmed the runway's safety zones complied with passenger standards.

The ruling saved a 1,000-year-old church near the runway.

The expansion plans had been dogged by local opposition to proposals to move or demolish St Laurence's Church.

But new safety criteria have allowed runway aerials to be resited. Road barriers and CCTV are also in place.

Managers at Southend Airport say they are delighted as an integrated railway terminal would make the airport more accessible.

Flights to Europe and the Canary Islands from the airport are being considered.