STAND up and fight plans for the world's biggest airport at Cliffe before it is too late. That was the message from campaigners and councillors at a public meeting held to discuss the proposals in Greenhithe.

More than 100 people packed into the Royal British Legion in London Road to hear speeches from Joan Goddard, chairman of the No Airport @ Cliffe Action Group, and the shadow leader of Dartford Council, Cllr Kenneth Leadbeater.

Not one person spoke in favour of the airport proposals, which would put Greenhithe residents directly on the flight path.

Cllr Leadbeater said: "There is little time left for people to register their opposition. It is vital people make their opposition clear to the Government."

Fears that an airport would dramatically increase pollution and noise dominated proceedings at the meeting. Cllr Leadbeater added: "People in Greenhithe and Swanscombe already suffer from congestion when the A2 is gridlocked and are rightly worried about the impact an airport of this scale would have.

"It is also possible people working at the airport would want homes in this area. I think the people of Greenhithe and Swanscombe have seen enough development already."

He added the concerns of residents went beyond "not in my back yard" feelings.

"There is a great deal of sympathy with the communities around Cliffe. A lot of people visit the area regularly and are very concerned about the impact this would have on wildlife."

Cllr Conrad Broadley, a Greenhithe member, said: "The public consultation ends on Saturday. This is people's last chance to protest."

Written objections can be sent to Alistair Darling, Secretary of State for Transport, or John Speller, Minister for Transport, Department for Transport and Regions, Eland House, Bressenden Place, London SW1E 5DU