Southend Airport will close unless it gets approval for its latest plans, claims Rochford and Southend East Tory MP Sir Teddy Taylor.
He said he was a strong supporter of the airport and believed the proposals were the best alternative.
He added: "The airport is only given a licence to operate by the Civil Aviation Authority on a yearly basis, provided some plans to meet latest safety requirements are in place.
"Otherwise, it will be forced to close, even with the existing limited operations.
"I want to emphasise from what I have been told it is plain the airport wants to move the church if it is possible. This relocation is absolutely vital to the survival of the airport in Southend. If it is not done and the airport fails to meet the new safety requirements, it is not going to survive.
"There is no argument about the situation. Now it is for the council and the community to make up their minds on the issue. The airport has an important role in the town and I believe we have to encourage it."
Sir Teddy said he appreciated the great deal of concern which existed about the church. He said: "As a member of the church, I do not believe buildings are sacrosanct but I understand the concerns of members of the congregation."
Published Wednesday, January 8, 2003
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