Expansion plans at a south Norfolk airfield are set for the green light, despite concerns about the increased commercial use at the Norfolk Gliding Club.

Proposals for three new hangars at the 80ha (200 acres) airfield at Tibenham - two of which will be used by aviation businesses - are being recommended for approval next Wednesday.

The recommendation from South Norfolk Council planners comes despite objections from parish councils at Aslacton and Great Moulton and 12 local residents over the greater commercial use, increased traffic movements on the rural roads and feared increase in air traffic.

Aerial survey company, Centerline Aerospace, which is currently based at Norwich International Airport and employs eight people, is looking to move its maintenance facility to the airfield by constructing a 32m x 40m hangar and workshop.

Dickleburgh-based Anglia Sailplanes, which services and repairs gliders and has two members of staff, is looking to relocate with plans for a 14m x 28m hangar and workshop. The third hangar, about 30m x 21m, would be used by the gliding club's members.

The application has received three letters of support, which they say will help boost the finances of the Norfolk Gliding Club and support its charitable operations.

South Norfolk Councillors are being recommended to approve the scheme with the condition that no jet aircraft, helicopters, cargo carriage, and night time flights are allowed at the former second world war airfield, which has been used by the gliding club for more than 50 years.

In a report to members, planning officer Chris Trett said the development was 'justified' at the airfield.

'With restrictions imposed, the development is not likely to generate substantial increases in road or air traffic such as would cause any significant increase in noise disturbance or detriment to highway safety,' he said.