Perry Barr Speedway ban planned - because sport is too noisy
He said: “The noise from the traffic surrounding the stadium far outweighs that of 15 speedway races - and we never race later than 10pm. These new silencers will also help.”
More than 500 letters of support have been received for the application – but there have been objections from a number of local residents.
In 2006 the committee granted temporary three-year consent for speedway to take place.
Planning official Alan Orr said there was no evidence to support the club’s claim that fitting new silencers to the bikes would work under racing conditions.
Mr Orr added: “I acknowledge the social, economic and civic benefits associated with speedway racing and that the sport contributes to economic regeneration and tourism policy objectives and enhances the profile of the city nationally.
“Against this must be weighed the environmental impacts of speedway, in particular from noise. There is evidence that a significant number of residents have suffered a reduction in the enjoyment of their property because of noise impacts.”
Local councillor Jon Hunt says approval should only be given if the club agrees to take urgent measures to cut noise, including building acoustic barriers.
Coun Hunt (Lib Dem Perry Barr) said: “There’s no doubt that this is a very controversial issue. A lot of residents are seriously affected by the noise.”
