Bradford Chamber of Commerce broadly given its approval to Leeds-Bradford Airport's masterplan for the future.

The backing came at the first Chamber Council meeting of the year.

The council supported the airport's plan for growth and development, particularly its plans for enhanced cargo handling facilities.

In a written statement sent to the airport's chiefs, the chamber said: "Bradford chamber supports Leeds Bradford Airport's continuing development and growth and looks forward to seeing the objectives of the masterplan come to fruition.

"We support the manner in which the consultation exercise has been undertaken."

The council did however express reservations over transport links to and from the airport.

As the plans for the light rail links to the airport will take as much as 20 years to be completed, the chamber recommended that priority be given to improving surface access, particularly the A658 link, to reduce traffic congestion to and from the airport.

The council also expressed concerns over the Robin Hood airport near Doncaster and its potential to entice

passengers away from Leeds-Bradford.

The document will be considered as part of a consultation by bosses at the Yeadon-based airport.