Thanet council is to hold a fresh series of confidential meetings with the American company RiverOak about a possible buyout of the Manston airport site.

The news comes as there appeared to be serious difficulties emerging over a possible compulsory purchase order (CPO) of the site.

In a joint statement which strikes a more conciliatory tone than has been the case recently, the two say: “RiverOak Aviation Associates and Thanet District Council anticipate a number of meetings in the coming weeks, in a variety of formats and venues.

"We jointly acknowledge there are a number of points to be negotiated and settled prior to indemnity partner status and any CPO, and are agreed these confidential negotiations are best conducted in private.”

“Thus, for a period of at least the next 30 days, updates on progress will be made, as with this statement, in a jointly agreed wording, appearing simultaneously on our websites.”

It adds: “Both participants in the negotiations wish to avoid repeating some of the misunderstandings of recent weeks, and feel this is a significant step forward.”

George Yerrall, chief executive of RiverOak Aviation Associates, stated: "Both parties agree some serious, and confidential, talks will clarify any confusion and help iron out the difficulties to ensure a successful conclusion."

Chris Wells, Ukip leader of Thanet District Council added: "I have been calling for calm over recent weeks, and, along with George, hope the campaigners will now respect that request."