PLANS to extend the runway at Southampton Airport have been refused by councillors.

The decision was made by Eastleigh Local Area Committee voted five to three against the plans, meaning the recommendation to permit the expansion has not been passed.

The decision will now be deferred to a full council meeting because it is considered a matter of significance across the borough.

Southampton Airport wants to extend its runway by 164m to allow for planes to travel to different destinations, but campaigners argued the scheme would be damaging to the environment.

More to follow