BATTLE lines are being drawn over £50billion plans to build an airport in the Thames Estuary.

Canvey town councillors are making preparations to join forces with parish councils in Kent to oppose the plans.

Concerned councillors claim plans to develop an international airport accommodating 150 million passengers a year, a stone’s throw from south Essex, would be disastrous for the area.

John Anderson, councillor for Canvey central, suggested the authority join forces with town councils in Kent to strengthen opposition to the development.

Mr Anderson said: “I think an alliance between us and councils in Kent would prove to be strong. I’m sure, together, we could be a very vociferous group.

“We need to make a statement to developers that the people of Canvey and possibly Kent are against the airport, rather than sitting back and saying nothing. But it will not be difficult to oppose these plans – the people of Canvey are quite spirited in that way.”

Two proposals have been submitted for the estuary – London mayor Boris Johnson’s original idea for a floating base and architect Lord Norman Foster’s recent proposal for a four-runway airport off the Isle of Grain, in Kent.

County councillor Ray Howard, who is also a borough and town councillor, has put forward a motion to Essex County Council on behalf of the town council opposing the estuary airport plans.

Peter Martin, from Essex County Council, has confirmed objections to the development will be discussed at a council meeting early next year.

Mr Howard said: “Lord Foster has been known to build all over the world, so we cannot sit idly by and let this happen.

“We must have a loud voice when it comes to opposing the airport.”

Elaine De Can, Canvey Town Council’s clerk, said she would begin correspondence with councils in Kent in the new year.