A protest in Flins, to counter the F1

500 people gathered in Flins-sur-Seine and Les Mureaux last week to protest against the construction of a circuit hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the town located in the Paris Region. The aim is to host the 2010 French Grand Prix.

The protesters, displaying colorful anti-F1 banners in green to highlight environmental issues, believe there is no benefit to such a project but recognize the flaws and problems caused by these constructions.

As usual, the main grievances are caused by the noise, air, and biological pollution induced by a Formula 1 Grand Prix. The circuit project, unanimously approved by the general council, would be built on an aquifer supplying nearly 800,000 people and furthermore in a flood-prone area.

The residents and the ‘Flins sans F1’ committee see a flooding risk, as water will no longer drain properly due to the asphalt, while others claim that the groundwater will be polluted by the race cars (fuels) and spectators hosted by the circuit.

More ironically, it can be noted that an aerodrome is located about five kilometers from the proposed site of the potential circuit, as well as the presence in the procession of two strollers from the Mac Claren brand…

The project also includes job creation and, of course, the arrival of thousands of people coming to the region to consume during national and global events, which is beneficial for local businesses.