Proposals to expand Luton Airport have been described as "madness" by a county councillor.

Hertfordshire County Council unanimously voted to oppose further expansion of the airport at a meeting last Tuesday (November 26).

Councillors said the expansion to cater for 32 million passengers a year by 2039 would harm the environment.

The proposals - which will be decided by Luton Borough Council - include a second terminal north of the runway, an extensive new airfield infrastructure and a third station.

Liberal Democrat councillor for Colney Heath and Marshalswick John Hale said: “Expanding the airport to 32 million passengers a year when we are trying to reduce carbon emissions is madness.

“The impact on residents in terms of increased noise and pollution is unacceptable.

"I am pleased the motion got the support of all parties at the council.”

The motion also called for any proposed plans to expand to be deferred until the new government has responded to a letter from national body Committee on Climate Change.

The letter calls for a reduction in airport expansion plans in order to reduce emissions from aviation.

Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Daisy Cooper welcomed the decision made by the council.

She said: "The expansion of Luton Airport would not only have a massive impact on the climate, but also on the people of St Albans who live under the flightpath."

London Luton Airport Ltd is holding a second consultation on its proposals. Deadline for comments is December 16.

The airport said the expansion could deliver more than 16,000 new jobs and bring £1.3 billion per year to Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

It also said a new funding package will be made to provide £7.5 million to authorities outside of Luton that will be most impacted by the airport.

It added it is making steps to reduce its carbon emissions.

Luton Airport corporate director Graham Olver added: "The airport is aware that neighbouring authorities take a deep interest to expand the airport.

"The airport is keen to hear the views of as many people as possible and would encourage people to attend one of its remaining six consultation events."

To share your views, visit: futureluton.llal.org.uk