Dismay at moto track scheme for green belt

A motocross track could be built on green belt land near to a Midland beauty spot under new plans which have been lodged with a council.

Tim Batham, director of the Brierley Hill-based Bathams Brewery, wants to create the park for electric motorbikes within a couple of miles of Kinver Edge beauty spot.

But the plans have come under fire amid fears that the development would have a major impact on the National Trust-run site and could also increase traffic on nearby roads.

The proposals for the Quantya Park franchised track at Compton Worwood Farm, off Beacon Lane, have been submitted to South Staffordshire Council.

All the bikes are electric so there would be no emissions or oil. They will be hired out to people who will do laps of the track.

Kinver Parish Council is recommending the plans are refused.

A spokesman said: "Taking into account the noise and traffic generated by a one-off motocross event last summer, this application is for much more frequent events four to five days per week, eight hours a day.

"This is an intrusion and unacceptable development in green belt.

"There are no special circumstances to allow such disruption to the tranquillity of the countryside. The noise would be heard in all of the surrounding areas, and would have a major impact on the National Trust's Kinver Edge."

Highways officers at Staffordshire County Council has also raised concerns about an increase in traffic along Beacon Lane. A report says: "The increased use of such a road would result in an increase in the likelihood of danger to road users."

The period for consultation over the plan ends on July 1.