Last updated 22:20, Friday, 28 March 2008

PLANS to transform Carlisle Airport into a passenger and freight hub were given initial approval by councillors today.

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A special meeting of the city council’s development control committee ruled it was ‘minded to approve’ the plan, by Stobart Air, subject to conditions.

The committee will meet again next Friday to hammer out requirements it will need operators to sign up to before giving full consent.

The plan will then go to the Government Office North West which will decide whether to call a public inquiry.

Stobart Air boss Andrew Tinkler said he was “pleased” with the decision.

During the meeting, residents of nearby Irthington urged the council to refuse permission, saying the plan would endanger lives in the village and create extra traffic, noise and pollution.

Airport director Richard Gordon put the case for the airport, saying it would help bring jobs and prosperity to the area.

Councillors ruled they were ‘minded to approve’ the plan, but stressed they could change their mind at next week’s meeting.