CAMPAIGNERS say they have got legal aid in their battle to stop the runway extension at Southend Airport.
An application for a judicial review is being launched by a member of anti-runway group Stop Airport Extension Now, who has not yet been identified.
The expansion programme was agreed by then Labour minister John Denham earlier this year after the £35million project was backed by Southend Council.
However, because the campaigners feel the decision was not lawful, it can be tested in court as part of the judicial review process. However, a judge must first approve the application for a review.
In addition to seeking legal aid, the campaign group has also pledged to help pay for the challenge, which could be heard in the High Court.
Denis Walker, spokesman for Stop Airport Extension Now, said: “The claimant has applied for legal aid. As far as I’m aware, they have got it.
“We will continue to support the claimant with contributions. We have already paid a substantial amount.”
Mr Walker would not disclose how much the group had raised so far. However, it has appealed for public donations to maintain the fight against airport expansion.
Mr Walker said a further statement from the claimant on the legal situation would be released soon.
The group has also hit back at claims its legal battle would damage investment in the town.
Mr Walker said: “We’ve never seen any evidence for the sort of investment people have been claiming. There’s been talk of nearly 7,000 jobs if the airport expands.”
But he claimed most of the jobs would be associated with the new airport industrial estate, which would happen whether the runway is extended or not.
Andrew Montgomery, a spokesman for the Legal Services Commission, said he was unable to confirm whether the applicant had been successful in their legal aid application.
In civil cases, the commission takes into account financial eligibility by looking at a client’s income and wealth and also whether the case has a likelihood of success.
James Duddridge, Tory MP for Rochford and Southend East, said: “I want to know on what basis they have claimed legal aid.
“This seems to be a spurious challenge based on processes, which is not what legal aid is set up for.
“It also seems to be inappropriate expenditure at this time, while the Government is short of cash.”