The City of Derry airport is set for a major expansion if an agreement can be reached over the proposed plans.

Members of the City of Derry Airport Committee will make a recommendation to a special meeting of Derry City Council that endorses the recommendation to proceed with a runway extension at the airport.

This decision, however, is subject to the availability of suitable funding with a further agreement to explore the capping and refinancing of existing running costs.

Chairman of the City of Derry Airport Committee, Cllr William Hay said: "Our recommendation will create opportunities for the strategic development of the facility, additional scheduled services and increased passenger throughput.

“The Committee is aware of and is sensitive to the range of issues involved, in particular those facing the residents in the area."

This overall strategic development plan consists of two major projects the first including runway extension, ancillary works such as lighting.

The second project at a later stage will include investment in the terminal and car park facilities. The recommendation also includes the establishment of a special project team to advance the implementation of this proposal.

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