East Herts Council's executive was due to meet last night to discuss its report responding to airport operation BAA's application.

In the report the council's executive member for regions and partnerships, Mike Carver, claimed the proposed expansion is in line with government policy.

He said: "It's considered that there is insufficient reason to recommend Uttlesford District Council refuse the application, provided suitable and appropriate conditions are imposed."

These include ensuring the new limit on annual passenger numbers is kept at 35 million, noise monitoring measures are improved and ensuring financial contributions are made to housing and education in areas where the airport's recruitment is concentrated.

Road congestion is also expected to increase if the plans are finally given the green light, and the report states permission should be granted only if BAA is "committed to making the necessary financial contributions" to the local infrastructure.

Mr Carver did, however, concede that lifting current annual flight restrictions from 181,000 to 264,000 will cause increased disturbance for residents over a wider area - particularly during "some vulnerable early morning and late evening periods".

But campaigners say the restrictions in the council's report are so stringent it is effectively a refusal of permission.

The recommendations will be presented to Uttlesford District Council which has the ultimate decision on whether to grant BAA planning permission.