People living near the airport and the district council had asked for designation for the airport.

That would mean restrictions would be imposed on night flying using the same powers under which noise is controlled at Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted Airports.

The Secretary of State said he was satisfied the airport's own proposals to control noise were sufficient.

I hope we can work something out which satisfies the airport and satisfies the local community

Councillor Derek Wintle

East Midlands Airport has welcomed the decision.

North West Leicestershire District Councillor Derek Wintle, who lives close to the airport and is a member of the East Midlands Airport Liaison Committee, said he had been disappointed but not surprised by the decision.

"The airport is there, it's successful and the vast majority of people want it to continue, but as a councillor representing a lot of people I am very mindful of the quality of life of the people I represent.

"I hope we can work something out which satisfies the airport and satisfies the local community.

"I would like a situation where the vast majority of people I represent find the night flying that does take place acceptable.

"It will not be easy, but we need to keep talking to the airport."

Very disappointed

Martin Henning, the spokesperson for campaign group Wings, said: "We are very depressed. We are very disappointed that the government has not seen fit to designate the airport."

"We have always tried to negotiate - we recognise that compromise is necessary to accommodate the airport and the needs of local people.

The Secretary of State has recognised the work we have done over the past few years to develop a comprehensive noise amelioration policy

Graham Keddie, airport managing director

"We will have to review our situation but we are not planning to give up."

East Midlands Airport is the fastest-developing freight airport in the UK with a large cargo hub and a high number of night flights.

Airport managing director Graham Keddie said: "The airport recognises the need to strike a balance between the operational requirements of our customers and the need to reduce the negative impact of our activities on neighbouring communities.

"In making his decision the Secretary of State has recognised the work we have done over the past few years to develop a comprehensive noise amelioration policy.

"Further work is under way and more initiatives will be introduced over the coming months."

Mr Keddie said about 2,000 people's jobs relied on night time operations.