A decision on what role Kent could play in dealing with the increased demand for airport capacity - including the options of a new hub airport in the Thames and one in north Kent - will be taken in December.

The government-appointed commission examining more than 70 proposals for improving aviation capacity in the UK says it will produce a shortlist of its preferred schemes by the end of the year.

People have just six weeks to deliver their verdict on the options, which cover a variety of long-term and short-term schemes.

The proposals include several that would have far-reaching consequences for Kent and include options for a new four runway hub airport in the Thames Estuary; a new runway at Gatwick and a role for Manston airport to act as a “reliever” airport, absorbing more holidaymakers and businesses from the region.

There is also an option for a new floating airport in the English channel, positioned on a man-made island a couple of miles off the coast near Dover.

Sir Howard Davies, Airports Commission chairman, played down the possibility of either Lydd Airport or Manston Airport in Thanet having part to play as a long-term solution.

“It is unlikely that either of these would be a contender for the new hub airpoort we have discussed.

"We do need to look at the role these smaller airport can play but quite frankly, I do not think we are going to see a four-runway airport at Lydd.”

“The proposals we have received demonstrate imaginative and thoughtful responses to the challenges the commission has been set, but also show clearly the wide spectrum of views that exist on these issues.”

He added: “The timetable to comment is tight, as we need to move quickly to winnow down the options and reduce uncertainty for potentially affected communities.

"I encourage everyone with an interest to make their views known, to help inform our recommendations on these complex and important questions.”

• For details of all the schemes and how to have your say go to the commission’s website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/airports-commission

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