Development plans for a £25m expansion of Lydd Airport in Kent are set to go to a public inquiry.

The scheme, which was passed by Shepway Council in March, has been called in for public inquiry by the Government Office for the South East.

The plans include a runway extension and a new terminal.

The decision was hailed as “a victory for the environment, for local people and for common sense” by the RSPB, while a Lydd Airport spokeswoman said she was “deeply disappointed” by the decision.

The airport is apparently still confident that the development will go ahead.

The spokeswoman said it was “hugely frustrating” that the decision would delay the  investment in new jobs and facilities at Lydd.

• Shepway supports Kent airport planning
• Boris HCA plans breach mayoral role, councils warned
• Cable gives regions hope over RDA cuts
• Plans submitted for historic Towcester regeneration
• Green light for Manchester Metrolink extension