Controversial plans to redevelop Rochester Airport at a cost of £4.4m to the taxpayer will be considered on Wednesday.

Last year the council adopted a masterplan for the airport – which it owns – despite receiving objections from more than 700 residents citing concerns about noise, safety and the effect on house prices.

The formal planning application outlines proposals including the “formation of a lit paved runway with parallel grass runway, formation of grassed bund, re-siting of helipads, erection of two hangars, a hub building with control tower and associated building, erection of fencing and gates, formation of associated car parking areas, fuel tank enclosure, family viewing area and a memorial garden, plus demolition of a range of structures and removal of portable structures.”

Papers to go before Medway Council’s planning committee recommend approval, subject to a number of conditions, but also outline a long list of objections.

Among them are fears that 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 of the airport.

Other objectors say the proposed loss of trees is not justified and there are fears that the airport’s expansion will “increase it’s chances of being used by criminals involved in the illegal trafficking for drugs, goods and firearms.”

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

But the council planning papers record that many more have responded to consultation showing support, saying night-flying does not occur at the airport, that fears over noise have been exaggerated, and that the airport will bring economic benefits.

The council argues the airport and adjoining land will provide a “strategic gateway to Medway and an economic hub”, creating up to 1,000 jobs.