CLACTON Air Show’s entertainments area and coach park will make way for trade stands in a bid to pay for policing costs.

Last year the show cost taxpayers less than £600 after income from sponsors and trade stands was taken into account, and generated more than £3.7million for the resort’s economy.

The police bill for the event could be as much as £9,000 – more than half the £16,000 price tag for hiring main attraction, the Red Arrows.

Tendring Council aims to run the 2012 show at “zero cost” to the taxpayer. But policing costs and the return of the Red Arrows, forced to pull out of last year’s event after a pilot died in a crash the week before, could push this year’s costs up to £25,000.

This year, the council aims to increase revenue from trade stands by relocating coaches to Clacton Leisure Centre car park, freeing land for up to 40 trade stands on the Martello car park site.

A council report said: “The police have stated a charge will be levied for their presence at the event from 2012 onwards.

“Although they originally stated the cost would be £23,000, this is being reviewed.

“The cost may be between £2,000 and £9,000.”

The entertainment area on West Greensward will also be axed in favour of more stands.

It is also hoped a main sponsor can be found to fund the event next year.

Stephen Mayzes, councillor for tourism, said: “I will be meeting with police and hope to reduce the cost and build up a partnership, so we can move forward with them in future years.

“This is the signature event of the district, but we have never had a business plan for the air show before.’’ Mr Mayzes added: “The council wants the show to be put on at zero cost to the taxpayer.

“We are looking at how we can bring in additional income from trade stands, for example by utilising the space at the coach park.”

Police divisional commander Mark Schofield said: “The finalisation of plans for the show is still under way with our partners.

“We are happy to work with the council to facilitate its business plan and on its budget in future years.”

The show, which is celebrating its 21st anniversary, will take place on August 23 and 24.