Airport bosses have been told to ditch their appeal against the refusal of multi-million pound expansion plans.

They have been warned that the airport's credibility is at stake if the appeal is not withdrawn immediately.

Southend Council rejected the controversial scheme - which would have involved moving historic St Laurence Church in Eastwood - but approved a scheme for new landing equipment.

This was in return for the airport shelving the expansion plans - but it has emerged that the appeal has still not been withdrawn.

David Garston, executive councillor for economic regeneration and development, said he was dismayed.

Airport director Roger Campbell "There are matters that need to be cleared up and then it will be withdrawn."

Rev Nigel Ransom, of St Laurence Church, said: "We are delighted that the church is no longer under threat."

Published Friday January 23, 2004

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