An airfield has been given the green light for to allow thousands of extra flights in and out of the site a year.

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome Trust has finally received approval from Maldon District Council to dramatically increase its flight movements from 360 a year to 3,000.

The Purleigh airfield originally wanted application had requested to allow up to 4,200 flight movements a year, but an amendment made by the council saw that number decrease by more than 1,000.

A previous application was refused in July after it asked for up to 8,000 flight movements a year.

Months after the process had begun, Aerodrome boss Ian Flint, CEO of Stow Maries Aerodrome said he was relieved the airfield can finally been able to increase its capacity.

He said: “The team at Stow Maries Aerodrome are overjoyed that the site has just been granted permission to increase the activity of its classic and traditional light aircraft.

“While we have not changed what sort of aircraft we fly, or when, being able to welcome members of the aviation community again is a brilliant achievement.

“I’m so proud that our neighbours have embraced us, like the regional and national historical and aviation community have.”

Airfield bosses said being limited to made the enquiry after they came to the decision allowing only 360 flights a year was a major under-use of the site.

Despite dozens of comments from residents supporting the application, but others objected.

Objector Graham Chisnall called for the bid to be refused, saying the move could have “a damaging impact to a unique historical site”.

He said: “The airfield is situated in a remote location and is only able to accept old and light aircraft which pose minimal noise.

“It will be a nuisance to the residents in proximity to the airfield.”

But many residents were happy to see the airfield, which has been a part of the community since the First World War, continue to grow.

Supporter of the application, John McMillan said: “It is vital that the number of movements allowed should be increased to a realistic level in order to allow the operator of the airfield to continue to showcase the country’s aviation history in such a fantastic way.”

The board of trustees for Stow Maries paid thanks to the council after it approved the plans.

The aerodrome also thanked neighbours, politicians and historians Dan Snow and Saul David, who had campaigned for the increase to be passed.

Board of trustees chairman Peter Martin, Chair of the Board of Trustees said: “We are very clear on what we want to see at the aerodrome, and the beating heart of the site is the aircraft that echo its original purpose.

“It’s great to have Maldon District Council show that they recognise this and support our work to breathe life into this wonderful local heritage resource.”

“This will have a real impact on our funding to continue to fund our renovations.”