A BID to increase the number of flyovers at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome has been criticised.

The trust behind the First World War aerodrome on Hackman’s Lane has submitted an application to Maldon District Council to increase the number of take offs and landings from the airstrip.

The application is for 25 more take offs during weekdays from May through to October, with 50 take offs at weekends and bank holidays, and 75 for special event flying days, between the hours of 8am and 8pm.

In a letter to the council, consultants Kember Loudon Williams said the “modest” rise would safeguard the tourist attraction’s future.

It said: “At the moment the trust is struggling to break even financially and this will ultimately put at risk the long term management and maintenance of the site.

“The trust is not profit making but needs the funds to enable the restoration and conservation work to continue. The proposals would not result in any harm as the policies allow schemes which relate to the historic character and context of the site.”

However, Purleigh Parish Council has opposed the bid, stating: “The council recognises the significance and historic importance of the aerodrome which is exceptionally rare and of outstanding importance to national heritage.

“However, the council considers that the application in its current form, if approved, will represent an unacceptable intensification of the use of the airfield. Theoretical- ly 21,500 aircraft movements could take place each year.

“The intensification of air movements proposed is also unacceptable and a threat to public safety given that there is no fence between the adjacent public right of way and the runway.”

While supporting the plans, Henry Harris, of Church Lane, Stow Maries, said there was a “lack of clarity” from the district council over the publicity for the bid.

He said: “With plans like these, residents deserve to know what the possible implications and ben- efits would be. I feel as though it needs much more publicity and clarity with the people.”