AN application to remove a noise condition from a racecourse’s licence has been approved by councillors, despite passionate please from nearby residents.

Objectors fear the removal of the condition will lead to large outdoor music concerts at Sedgefield Racecourse, attracting thousands of people and shattering the peace of neighbouring properties.

However, the racecourse says the existing noise management plan will remain in place, with additional measures taken for individual licensed events.

The racecourse has been subject to a condition stating noise should not exceed background level over a five minute average since 2012.

This is in line with the Good Practice Guide for the control of noise Noise from Pubs and Clubs but is aimed at internal rather than external events.

Today (Tuesday, September 1) Durham County Council’s statutory licensing sub-committee was asked to remove the condition, with the racecourse instead adhering to the Code of Practice on Environmental Noise Control at Concerts.

The council’s environmental health team regard this as “more appropriate method of regulating and controlling public nuisance” at outside music events and police, the fire service and Durham Local Safeguarding Children Board have raised no objections.

However, the council has received 12 letters, from residents and Sedgefield Town Council, opposing the change as it could result in increased noise levels.

Four residents spoke at the meeting in Spennymoor along with Councillor Mel Carr, chairman of Sedgefield Town Council, and Councillor Gloria Wills, the town mayor.

Residents claimed to have suffered significant noise disturbance from the racecourse but said the problem had lessened since 2012.

They argued the new code held no legal weight, as well as being 19-years-old and under review.

Cllr Wills said: “We have no wish to be here complaining yet again. Sedgefield Town Council totally supports business and development. However, we have a duty of care to our residents to ensure their quality of life is not affected.”

Nick Walton, representing the racecourse, said staff were committed to being good neighbours and took all necessary steps to prevent noise disturbance.

“Sedgefield Racecourse’s management is perfectly aware they have a responsibility not only to themselves but the residents in the area to ensure they don’t cause a nuisance,” he added.

The committee approved the application subject to conditions relating to noise monitoring, prior notification and increased dialogue between the racecourse and residents.

After the meeting, nearby resident Marion Cant expressed her disappointment at the decision but praised Cllr Carr and Cllr Wills for fighting on their behalf.