British Airports Authority(BAA) has asked to raise yearly "air transport movements" from 241,000 to 264,000 in a plan said to be worth more than �2bn.

But Stop Stansted Expansion's Carol Barbone said the area's road and rail services were already overstretched.

The proposal is to go before Uttlesford District Council.

Ms Barbone said: "Noise from over flying and night flights are already a significant problem in this area, so too is road congestion and the pressure on an already creaking rail service is immense."

Rise in passenger numbers

But Stansted Airport managing director Terry Morgan said increased flights would benefit the region's economy.

"It's key to the future of the airport but more importantly it's key to the future of the economy of south east of England and the eastern region. About one in four people travel through Stansted on business."

The increased flights plan is expected to lead to a rise in passenger numbers from 25m to 35m a year.

BAA's plans for a second runway at Stansted have attracted widespread opposition from local residents and environmental campaigners.

A formal application for permission to develop the new runway is due to be made next year.