Leicestershire County Council leader Harry Barber has come out against a proposal to build a second runway at the airport, saying it is not needed.

Mr Barber also believes a new airport proposed for the Rugby area would blight a large part of south Leicestershire and dramatically increase traffic congestion on nearby roads.

The two proposals are part of a government consultation on the long-term future of air transport in the UK.

Major growth

Mr Barber said: "There are environmental problems linked to the expansion, especially traffic conditions around the airport.

"The road and rail links are not good in the area near the airport and road capacity at junction 23 of the M1 is already full.

The airport is busier with budget airlines

"If the government wants to move traffic from south-east England, it shouldn't think it can move it here."

The suggestion for a new international airport located in Warwickshire near the A45 and M6 between Coventry and Rugby has already faced some opposition.

Several protests have been held by people in south Leicestershire objecting to the plans.

At East Midlands Airport, located in Castle Donnington, Leicestershire, the arrival of budget airlines, including Bmibaby and Go, has seen major growth in passengers numbers.

Another reason for the suggested expansion at East Midlands Airport is a projected 10-fold increase in freight handled at the airport.

Leicestershire County Council's cabinet is expected to vote against proposals for the second runway.