Southend Airport's multi-million pound expansion has prompted opposition from Leigh town councillors.
They were even urged to reconsider their long-standing support for the future of the airport in a motion put before the finance and general purposes committee.
As part of the airport plan, Grade I listed St Laurence Church in Eastwood would have to be moved or be demolished.
Donald Fraser, for Glendale ward, said: "I am against the airport plans. I have spoken to dozens of people in the area on this matter and they are all against it.
"People are very concerned about noise and traffic problems which may spread to Leigh if the airport were to expand."
Councillors also expressed great concern about the possible demolition of St Laurence church.
Chairman of the council Bill Abbot argued, however, that the council must support the airport. He said: "If the airport cannot carry out its plans it will close.
"If it closed then supporters of Cliffe airport in Kent would have a massive boost for their project, and it would almost certainly go ahead."
The committee agreed to put a resolution to the full council which supported the development of the airport on the basis that St Laurence is relocated and not demolished.
Published Thursday, February 6, 2003
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