| Protests against Heathrow Expansion |
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| Written by Jelena |
| Monday, 16 March 2009 13:26 |
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Thousands of protesters have gathered for a huge demonstration against the expansion of Heathrow Airport.
Stilt-walkers, brass bands and hundreds of people in fancy dress were among those who created a carnival-like atmosphere for the event - called the Make A Noise Carnival. Demonstrators walked from Hatton Cross to Sipson, the village that will be lost if plans for a third runway at the London airport go ahead. At Sipson, the protesters gathered in a field to form a huge "NO" that should have been visible to passing aircraft. Politicians and environmentalists addressed the crowds and bands played. A local villager and Hayes councillor, Mary O'Connor, 65, said: "I've lived here for 47 years and have been part of the protest from the very beginning. "Back then there were only 10 of us marching, now look how many of us there are, thousands. "It's great to see how much momentum it's gained, we're certain of victory." Greenpeace campaigner Anna Jones told Sky News: "We don't want it built because it's going to be bad for this community, it's going to be bad for London in terms of noise and air pollution. "But most importantly it's going to be bad for the whole world because if we build this runway then we are putting ourselves on a path to climate change disaster." But Lord Soley, campaign director of pro-expansion group Future Heathrow, said: "Local people know that the airport is vital to the local economy and supports jobs and business. "A third runway will only go ahead within environmental limits on noise and air quality. "Airlines will only be able to fly more planes from Heathrow if they buy cleaner and quieter aircraft." |
| Last Updated on Monday, 16 March 2009 13:26 |