Don't know how true this is, but the (apparent) story behind Lydd, is that an oil sheik bought 'London Ashford' without seeing it, or knowing its true location because he wanted a quick journey into London. He was understandably amazed and a bit miffed that it took him 3hrs or whatever to get from his London airport into London.
However, I'm led to believe that he was pondering what to do with the place and decided to buy the golf course next door! So at least he can nip from the airport to the golf course!
I guess the new investment is also down to him.
C23