Southend Airport is set to object to a controversial 326 home development in Rochford, because of the impact it could have on its own future growth.

Developers Colonnade have put forward the plans for Coombes Farm, between Stambridge Road, Rocheway and Mill Lane, Stambridge.

Under a deal struck last week between the airport and Southend and Rochford District Councils, more aircraft will be flying across this area of Rochford which is currently less populated.

This is to placate the residents of Leigh and Eastwood who feared noisy night flights would disrupt them.

However, with new homes proposed in the area this would affect the airport’s flight path plans.

Airport managing director Alastair Welch said: “As is usual, we have been informed of the proposed development at Coombes Farm.

“As part of our duties to ensure safeguarding of the aerodrome, we will review the proposed application to establish whether it will impact adversely on, among other things, the safety of either aircraft or people.

“If any planning application could have an impact on the operation of the airport or its future development, then we’ll put forward a holding objection to the proposals.

“The development is a large one and we have not yet completed our detailed assessment of the application. Once this is complete we will advise the planning authority of our position.”

Mr Welch added the airport had put forward a holding objection which was normal procedure in the circumstances. The site is close to the former Rocheway secondary school which was closed in the 1960s because of constant interruptions to lessons from aircraft noise.

Protest group Race, Residents Against Coombes Expansion, will be holding a public meeting at Rochford Methodist Church, in North Street, to provide a chance for residents to oppose the plans.

Spokesman James Bowker said: “It is important the district council receive as many letters as possible.

“While the public consultation period was due to end on October 9, we have now been told by the council it will be extended until the date of the meeting.”

The proposal is due to be considered by Rochford District Council’s development control committee on November 19, along with other plans for new homes on the Christmas Tree farm in Rectory Road, Hawkwell.

Both sites are in the green belt and neither are included in the district council’s core strategy for development which is currently being completed, before a public inquiry expected next year.

Colonnade declined to make further comment on the plans until the application has been considered by the council.