THE dream of bringing a First World War airfield back to life is hanging in the balance.

Russell Savory, co-owner of Stow Maries airfield, said he will need to do some “soul searching” about whether he can pursue his plans for the aerodrome, after planning conditions were amended by Maldon Council.

He aims to restore the airfield, near South Woodham Ferrers and create a living museum and wildlife centre. Although councillors agreed planning permission should be granted, they were concerned about aircraft movements at the site, and restricted the proposed 24 movements – take offs and landings – to 12, which would equal six flights in any 24-hour period.

The limitations include no night flying, no fare-paying passengers, only 15 flight-worthy aircraft on site at any time, and no flying zones, in order to reduce noise disturbance.

Mr Savoy said: “We are up against competition.

“I will have to convince the owners we are worthwhile, but it could go either way.

“Most people didn’t know the site existed until we started this, but I have come along to conserve it.

“I never thought trying to give something to the local community would be so difficult.”