Opponents fighting plans for a 130ft extension to the main runway at Birmingham Airport have a second chance to voice their disapproval.

Solihull Borough Council has reopened public consultation on the contentious proposals for another 20 days.

Environmental campaigners welcomed the decision after complaining not enough people were aware of the airport’s intentions.

Joe Peacock, of Birmingham Friends of the Earth, said: “We welcome the re-opening of the consultation but our objections to the proposed runway extension still stand.

“Noise pollution will get worse and carbon dioxide emissions from Birmingham International will rise if this development is given the green light.

“Solihull Council must refuse planning permission until the airport company can demonstrate its proposals will not increase the airport’s environmental footprint which is big enough already.”

In January the Birmingham Airport anti-Noise Group and Friends of the Earth launched the Flyagra campaign and website to persuade the council to turn down the airport’s application for planning permission. If approved, the £120 million project would increase the range of long-haul flights available from Birmingham and could be up and running by 2012.

James Botham, secretary of the anti-noise group, said: “Residents must use this further opportunity to scrutinise the proposals and make their voices heard.

“Worryingly, many of the residents we have recently talked to around the airport were not aware there was a planning application to extend the runway.”

Comments on the plans can be submitted to the council up to the determination of the planning application expected in December.