A £1.2M new go-kart track will be built in a former industrial unit in Stockton after it was granted planning permission.

Stockton councillors gave a unanimous vote to build the track, in the former Arco warehouse off Portrack Lane, opposite trampoline Park Jump 360 and near the Daisy Chain shop.

Operator Team Sport has 24 tracks across the UK, employing 750 people, with the nearest in Newcastle and Leeds, and has been operating for 25 years.

The Stockton site is expected to open at the end of November this year, once the building has been fitted out.

There were 23 objections to the plans, with occupiers of close-by residential properties raising concerns about noise, smells and opening hours.

Dominic Gaynor, the managing director of Team Sport, said his firm had operated for many years 'without any complaints'.

And he added: "We have acknowledged the concerns of neighbours and we have made attempts to explain our proposals.

"The proposal will not give rise to any adverse impact and offers the opportunity for economic growth."

Mr Gaynor said the track, which will be open from 9am to 11pm, seven days a week, would generate up to 40 new jobs, mainly for younger people.

A function room with a snack bar area will allow corporate or children's go-karting parties.

Cllr Paul Kirton said: “The noise mitigation was the only concern if the shutter doors were open.

“But I have no objections at all.”

Chairwoman Cllr Norma Stephenson said any excessive noise from the new centre could be dealt with when it was up and running.

Motor enthusiasts can look forward to a 500m multi-level circuit, tight bends and ramps for up to 16 karters to race around at any one time.

Mr Gaynor said in a statement after the meeting: "The Portrack Industrial Estate is a thriving area and has excellent road and transport links too.

"We’re very much hoping that our new centre will appeal to both the town’s residents and those living nearby in the surrounding towns of Middlesbrough and Darlington.”