The redevelopment of Rochester Airport looks set to go ahead after the council secured £4 million in funding for the project.

Medway Council adopted a plan for the regeneration of the airport last year, but the controversial proposals have not yet been approved, as more than 700 people objected to them.

Many who live near it were worried about noise, safety and the effect the redevelopment would have on their on house prices.

But just weeks ago, the council’s planning committee chose to ignore a recommendation to approve the scheme, and instead delayed the decision until after a site visit.

Opponents including Labour group deputy leader Cllr Teresa Murray said the site visit would bring some short respite to those that have contacted us feeling frustrated that the Tory administration at Medway Council are just not listening to their concerns.

However, Cllr Andrew Mackness, a former pilot who sits on the planning committee, criticised the decision to visit the site by saying he didn’t think it was necessary.

The planning application for the scheme outlines proposals including a lit, paved runway, with parallel grass runway, re-siting of helipads, two hangars, a hub building with control tower, car parks, fuel tank enclosure, family viewing area and a memorial garden, plus demolition and removal of existing structures.

Planning committee papers recommend approval subject to a number of conditions, but also outline a long list of objections.

Among them are fears that an increasing number of flights will cause noise disturbance, increase the risk of accidents, and result in a loss of privacy for residents and the 17 schools within a one mile radius.

A recurring objection was that the airport should not be funded by the taxpayer.

The council has argued the scheme it will provide a “strategic gateway to Medway and an economic hub”, creating up to 1,000 jobs.

The matter is back with the planning committee next Wednesday and now looks set to be approved.

Earlier today, Cllr, Kelly Tolhurst, Conservative parliamentary candidate for Rochester and Strood revealed the council has secured Government funding for the project, as part of a growth deal for the area.

She, said: “I am delighted with the announcement today with £4m of funding for Rochester Airport, that supports and endorses both my own and Rochester and Strood Conservative’s plans to safeguard the airport and create jobs with the exciting development and creation of a business park.”

Prime Minister David Cameron, said: “Giving local communities the power and the money to unlock growth and development and make the spending decisions that work for them is a key part of our long-term economic plan to secure a brighter future for Britain and ensure a recovery for all.

“Local Conservatives such as Kelly Tolhurst who is a tireless campaigner for Rochester and Strood will welcome projects such as at Rochester Airport, which will make an important difference to the area.

“That’s what Growth Deals are all about, backing local people and investing in the infrastructure, housing and skills that will drive forward local economies, create more jobs and opportunities for hardworking people and supercharge all parts of our country.”