A planning application for an extension to the runway was submitted to Southend Borough Council on 13th October 2009. On Wednesday 20th January Southend Council's Development Control Committee passed the runway extension plan by a majority 14 votes to 3.

As we anticipated, the recommendation was sent to the Communities Secretary John Denham for review. On the 19th March 2010 John Denham approved the plans for the airport's development.

Our aim is to open the runway and new terminal in 2011 in order that Southend Airport can be a Gateway to the London Olympics and Paralympics.