Madrid residents brace for noise and disruption from new F1 circuit
City council emphasises economic case for Madring amid local outrage over disruption and environmental impact
TL;DR
- Residents protesting Madrid's new F1 circuit cite noise levels nearly twice the legal limit during recent tests.
- The Stop F1 Madrid platform claims noise levels reached 102.7 decibels on average, with peaks up to 109.1 decibels, far exceeding the 55-decibel residential limit.
- Concerns also include the environmental impact, with over 700 trees removed and a seasonal wetland destroyed for the circuit's construction.
- Local authorities, including city councillor Borja Carabante and regional minister Jorge Rodrigo, highlight the expected economic benefits and international positioning for Madrid.
- Officials plan to implement measures like acoustic panels and state that F3 cars are louder than F1 cars, implying less noise during the Grand Prix.
- Protesters argue that the circuit exacerbates Madrid's 'heat island' effect and will cause significant disruption and distress to residents.