PLANS to build up to 1,000 homes on a WGC airfield have been given a lukewarm reception. Mariposa Investments, which owns Panshanger Aerodrome, held three public exhibitions last month to advise residents of its plans to develop the site. Around 400 peopl

PLANS to build up to 1,000 homes on a WGC airfield have been given a lukewarm reception.

Mariposa Investments, which owns Panshanger Aerodrome, held three public exhibitions last month to advise residents of its plans to develop the site.

Around 400 people attended over the course of the roadshow, including Will Davis, of Hardings, WGC.

Will admitted Welwyn Hatfield needed new homes, but said he was keen to see the airfield preserved.

"Most of the [airfield] land is Green Belt, and Green Belt exists to prevent urban sprawl," he said.

"The Green Belt should be left to do its job."

Hatfield resident Reg Coleman said: "I would hate to see the airfield go, but I realise we have got to have houses somewhere."

Reg, of Birchwood Avenue, added: "I wonder if the training of future pilots has been taken into account."

Lindsey Peters, of Lincoln Close, WGC, is also in two minds about the plans.

The diet and fitness instructor admitted extra homes could boost her business but added: "I think it would be sad to lose the airfield because it is a significant place in our area."

Carol Edwards, of Heay Fields, WGC said it would be a "shame" to see the aerodrome disappear.

"It has been here forever," she said.

"It is a part of Panshanger."

She added: "There is no noise problem with it at all.