A union today spoke out against massive expansion plans for Shoreham Airport.

Gary Smith, GMB organiser for Sussex, said he was worried about the environmental impact of the scheme to turn the airport into a centre for Euro-commuters.

He claimed there were serious concerns over the BAe 146 jets which could be used to transport up to 80 passengers at a time to European cities including Paris and Amsterdam.

He spoke out following reports about the aircraft in yesterday's Observer newspaper.

Mr Smith represents GMB members in the fire service at Shoreham and the baggage handling sector at Gatwick, as well as hundreds of other employees across the county.

He said: "Any expansion will also impact on the environment both in terms of noise and emissions. There have been studies in America which highlight ill-health among the population around airports."

Mr Smith also claimed most of the potential jobs created would be minimum wage, part-time work and would not impact the local economy. He said: "If we are talking about a few jobs flipping burgers, is it really worthwhile?"

But John Haffenden, airport manager, said the plans were at an early stage and full consultation would be carried out with local residents.

He said the Civil Aviation Authority had stringent safety standards and would have to approve any development.

And, he said: "I find it amazing that a union involved in employing people is complaining about jobs being created.

"There would be a wide range of jobs from the lower range of work, like cleaning, right up to the extremely skilled technical and engineering jobs. Look at Gatwick, where there is no unemployment at all."

A spokeswoman for Brighton and Hove Council said: "We understand these concerns but these plans are at a very early stage and there will be full consultation with residents and local businesses before anything goes ahead."