Airport news was April fools' joke

An artists impression of a plane at the proposed airport

This morning it was reported that Chorley Council planned to open an airport, with a runway parallel to the canal for 20 flights per day.

But it can now be revealed that we joined forces with the council to share the tale on April Fools’ Day.

The news received a mixed reaction on social media, with many people realising it was a joke.

On Facebook, Felicity Moss said: “OMG How can they possibly alow an airport to be built on botany bay car park? What next!”

Jonathan Doherty said: “This is a joke right? Come on, what size aircraft do thy expect to take off from that tiny stretch of land? I write this while looking out at Glasgow airport...

“How about fix the trains, then we can use Manchester airport easier, and if you want tourists to come north to chorley it will be much easier for them.”

Nicholas John AInsworth said: “Chorley Lancashire the new capital of England. We,ll have to get rid of all the green fields though to make way for all the runways and Terminals x”

Linda Grogan said: “Don’t need another airport the sky’s are noisy and poluted enough”

Peter Bond said: “Will they drop passengers off at Leyland?”

Lydia Goodliffe said: “What it doesn’t say is that they have to reroute the M6 because they’re using it as runway. The terminal buildings will be in Adlington. Nice and local. Tyrers will be offering coach transfers or you can use the canal as a quieter option. Well done Northern Powerhouse.”

Keith Anderson said: “Brilliant idea. I hear they’re building a separate runway for the flying pigs!”

Justin Ross said: “Possibly the worse April fool ever”

Marg Bouvier said: “remember the date folk ........april 1st lol”

The joke announcement came as Chorley Council launches its new checkoutchorley.com website showcasing what the area has to offer to visitors.

It will act as an online tourist information centre for Chorley.

Gary Hall, the council’s chief executive, said: “By launching checkoutchorley.com we want to make the area as accessible as possible to everyone and tell even more people about the fantastic attractions Chorley has to offer to the day visitor, no matter what your age or interest.”