Heathrow expansion plan draws huge protest

LONDON, May 31 (UPI) -- Heathrow International Airport's planned expansion has drawn thousands of protesters to the site outside London, organizers said.

Politicians and environmentalists addressed demonstrators at the Make A Noise Carnival, which included stilt-walkers and brass bands. Demonstrators walked from Hatton Cross to Sipson, the village that will be lost if Heathrow's third runway plans go ahead. There they gathered in a field to form a huge "NO" visible to passing aircraft, reported Sky News Saturday.

"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," said Hayes Councilor Mary O'Connor, 65. "It's great to see how much momentum it's gained, we're certain of victory."

But backers of the airport expansion are not giving up.

"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," said Lord Soley, campaign director of pro-expansion group Future Heathrow.