PLANS for massive expansion at a local airport were being submitted to councils this week.

Durham Tees Valley Airport is seeking planning permission for a multi-million pound scheme which will see a new passenger terminal and other developments.

Airport bosses are lining up an exhibition on the plans and there will be open days for people to see what is involved.

Officials will also attend neighbouring parish council meetings to bring councillors up to date.

A new "flightlink" bus service is due to come into operation in January.

The former Teesside Airport, which was re-branded a few months ago, is looking for major growth in passenger numbers. The number of people using the airport has already grown by 36pc this year to 950,000 and managing director Hugh Lang is looking for the same increase or more in 2005.

By 2008 he is aiming for 1.7m passengers, and 3m by 2015.

To do all this he needs planning permission from both Darlington and Stockton councils to expand the site.

The application, which was being submitted this week, details plans for a new terminal, hotel, business park, more aircraft bays, extra parking, a cargo and maintenance village and a new taxiway.

"We hope to have a decision by Easter," said Mr Lang.

After that, 250 acres on the south side of the site is waiting to be developed and already has outline planning permission.

Mr Lang said feedback from consultation showed support for the scheme - even from communities close to the site.

"Generally, they back ongoing development at the airport," he said.

"When we have finished the people of this area will have a modern airport to be proud of."

The expansion would also bring more jobs - 950 for every million extra passengers. At present there are 152 direct jobs at the airport, with just over 600 linked to the site overall.

"My message to local people is: embrace the future development of this airport. It can only be for the good of the community."

* Take-off: see page 14