Shepway councillors voted overwhelmingly last night to set aside £150,000 for fighting the public inquiry into expanding Lydd Airport.

The council controversially went against the advice of its own officers on March 3 when it voted to approve plans for a new runway and terminal.

But the decision was 'called in' by the government and the council must now foot the bill to prove it was right.

The money would pay for the council's barrister, expert advice and staffing costs in the inquiry, which starts on February 15.

Those in favour of setting aside the money, such as cabinet member for planning Hugh Barker, told colleagues it was a case of upholding democracy.

Audio: Cllr Lynne Beaumont speaks against the inquiry fight

But opponents, such as Liberal Democrat leader Lynne Beaumont, said it was a waste of public money and claimed the cost could spiral even further out of control.