A FINAL decision on controversial plans to expand the runway at Southampton Airport is set to be made this month, it has been confirmed.

The proposals to expand the runway by 164m will be discussed by Eastleigh councillors on March 25.

It comes as the Eastleigh Local Area Committee will be asked to make a final decision on the scheme.

The meeting will start at 10am and will be held online as a Microsoft Teams live event.

The agenda for the meeting and a recommendation on the plans is yet to be published.

But in a statement Eastleigh Borough Council said: "The application will be thoroughly reviewed and the comments sought from a wide range of the interested parties, including residents, adjoining local authorities and parish councils, and statutory and non-statutory consultees. When Council staff are in a position to make a recommendation on the proposed development, a full report will be presented to the Eastleigh Local Area Committee. Those residents and interested parties who have made representation on the proposed development will be invited to attend and participate in the Council meeting."

As previously reported, airport bosses said the airport's future would be in doubt if the plans were rejected.

But campaigners and some local councils - including Southampton City Council -  have objected to the plans as they raised concerns over the impact the proposals would have on  noise and pollution.

The runway expansion would allow the airport to accommodate planes such as the Airbus 320 and Boeing 737.

As previously reported, Southampton Airport amended the proposals last year following a number of public consultations.

Changes included caps to passenger number growth and financial compensation for acoustic insulation to nearby households.

Those who  would like to speak at the meeting on March 25 have time until noon on Friday 19 March  to register or submit statements.

People who would like to take part can contact democratic.services@eastleigh.gov.uk  or telephone 07823 626625 or 07876 217751.

Participants can either speak, provide an audio or video statement or provide a written statement that will be read out on their behalf.

All participants will have up to three minutes each with equal time allowed for those wishing to speak for or against.