The chief executive of Lydd airport has spoken for the first time about the construction of its new runway starting next year.

Charles Buchanan, whose previous role was as boss of Manston airport when it closed in May, said contractors will be invited to submit offers to carry out the 294m extension in January.

The successful bidder will be revealed as soon as the airport, officially called London Ashford Airport, completes planning conditions.

These include paying more than £110,000 to Shepway council for insulation at Greatstone Primary School.

The airport was given the all clear to begin its £25m development, which also includes a new terminal building, after the final legal challenges were thrown out by the Court of Appeal this year.

Capita, part of the design team for London’s £14.8bn Crossrail transport scheme, is managing and designing the 294m runway extension, plus a 150m starter extension.

Mr Buchanan, who took up his post in September, said: “We are in the final stages of preparing the project that will see the runway extended and ultimately a new terminal built.

“This will give a major boost to our ambitions, increasing the airport’s operational capabilities and attracting more aviation-related businesses.”

Mr Buchanan plans to show off the £25m development plans at international aviation events in a bid to win business next year.

He said: “We look forward to spreading the word about our ambitious investment plans with airlines, tour operators and other travel businesses attending these events.

“They represent a great opportunity to network with potential customers and to bring them up to date with the fantastic opportunities awaiting them in Kent.

“These events attract high-level decision-makers and buyers from across the travel and aviation industries worldwide and provide an excellent platform for us to explore new business opportunities.

“London Ashford Airport is the perfect base for airline operators. Our runway extension will enable regional jet aircraft to fly a full payload of passengers to a wider range of destinations across Europe. We are also providing much-needed additional airport capacity in the South East of England.

“We offer easy access to the motorway network, just 20 minutes to Ashford which also has a high-speed rail link that gets you into central London in just 38 minutes.”

The airport’s Saudi owners have spent £35m upgrading facilities over the past decade, including the installation of an instrument landing system, a new executive terminal with VIP facilities, a new departure lounge and improved passenger check-in and security.