SOUTHEND Airport is investing millions of pounds into improvements to help cater for increasing demand, bosses say.

The airport says it is investing £3million to improve the quality and service it provides.

The project involves major resurfacing of taxiways which were originally constructed in the 1950s.

Additional aircraft parking stands will also be added so the airport can cater for more planes.

Glyn Jones, CEO of Stobart Aviation, the group that operates the airport, says: “Stobart Group is investing further in its award-winning London Southend Airport.

“This involves further improving the efficiency of its taxiway network and improving both the quality and the number of its aircraft parking stands, in response to growing demand from commercial and private jet operators.

“The result of these works will be an even easier airfield for airlines to use, underlining the importance of London Southend’s capacity in an increasingly congested London aviation market.”

The project is expected to take place over the next four months, with contractors working round the clock.

John Lamb, leader of Southend Council believes it is just another step taken by Stobart to make Southend Airport one of the best in the country.

He said: “I think what they are doing is very timely because of how they are improving the number of flights that are leaving from Southend.

“With the extra destinations, we do need the room. It’s a great investment moving forward and will have a beneficial impact on the borough as well as hopefully create more jobs.

“These improvements will give them the capacity and encourage them to promote the facilities here in Southend.”

Jota Aviation, an airline based at Southend Airport, is pleased the work is taking place and believes it will benefit everyone involved.

Mike Sessions, commercial manager said: “Once the work is finished, it will be really worthwhile.

“Stobart has been very accommodating and made sure that disruption is kept to a minimum.

“It has caused small issues but we are working around it with the help of the airport.”

Mr Sessions added: “The work needs to be done so it’s one of those things you just work round but it will be fantastic when it’s all finished.

“It will be fantastic for the airport with the extra space.”

Peter Shorter, an instructor at the Southend Flying Club which is also based at the airport, said: “We are tucked away in a corner so there has been no affect for us.

“All the work is taking place at the other side of the airport so we’re still able to fly in and out.

“I think there were night-time restrictions but obviously we don’t operate then.”