Hever castle which is located near Gatwick airport fears that if a second runway is built it would reduce the number of people visiting the castle. This is because the castle has over the years suffered from the noise coming from the airport. An additional runway would mean additional noise. Duncan Leslie who is an executive chef at the castle said that if the new runway is built and more aircrafts operate from the London airport, then the future is dim for the castle. The magnificent castle which has rich history dating back to 1270 is 21 miles from London Gatwick. It once was home to Anne Boleyn and currently a tourist destination.
The staff during the interview said that the noise was a real spoiler for the tourist since you cannot have quiet and peace to enjoy the place. They fear that the increased noise might further reduce tourist visits. Since the proposal was accepted, the airport has been holding exhibitions for possible sites for the runway. This has been done in Kent, Surrey and Sussex. The airport’s commission director has however come out to defend Gatwick saying that the new runway will be South of the existing one and would not in any way worsen the situation at the Castle.
At the same time the Gatwick area conservation campaign confirmed that a number of historic buildings would have to be demolished to pave way for the said runway. Some of the structures will include All angels’ church and Elizabethan Charlwood House. The director of the commission said that the airport is keen on knowing the concerns of the people before they decide on the runway. He urged people to speak up before the May 16th deadline. That way, they can put into consideration and lessen the effects that a new runway can have on the people residing near Gatwick airport.
