A motorcycle track will be allowed to stay open in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour and get nuisance bikers off the streets. 

The training centre at Sunridge Farm House, Thornley, has been converted from farmland to provide the new facility in response to the ongoing issue of off-road vehicles blighting communities, 

However, the County Durham track was initially converted without planning permission and led to several complaints from residents concerned about noise levels and its location next to Ludworth Road Cemetery. 

But despite Durham County Council planning officers suggesting the proposal should be refused - they said it “would cause unacceptable harm to the intrinsic character and tranquillity of the countryside” - it was handed a lifeline by councillors who have faith and say it is much-needed. Councillors considered the application retrospectively, with the track formation works having already been undertaken and the operation of the track having commenced in 2021. 

County councillor for Thornley and Trimdon Lucy Hovvels said more than 30 residents were concerned about excessive noise coming from the site, adverse impact upon the enjoyment of sensitive locations nearby such as the nearby cemetery and that the £25 per session price is too expensive for locals to use the facility. Yet five responses were received in support of the facility, saying it would be good for the area and the noise has minimal effect. 

Ann McCarrol, the applicant, said the current measures to tackle anti-social behaviour related to off-road bikes is not working and pledged to encourage users to look after the area. Residents have told how the nearby football field is left damaged every weekend, costing thousands to repair, after bikers tear up the turf. 

“To deter anti-social behaviour all user members as a condition of their membership must sign an undertaking that they will not use their motorcycle on any public thoroughfare as in public footpaths, bridle paths, public road, trespass on farm fields,” she said.  

“The track will provide a safe, contained, fun facility and to get these motorcycles away from the public into a controlled regulated area.”

Despite the high demand, Ms McCarrol has said it will only open one day per week at weekends in consideration of neighbour’s concerns - the opening times will be strictly limited to 10am until 4pm. A noise decibel meter will be deployed and all motorcycles will be decibel tested according to requirements and rated prior to being allowed to use the track. 

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Cllr Hovvels said the facility had been allowed to stay open for an initial one-year period in the hope it will help the local area. She added: “We do have a problem across the community with motorbikes but the committee decided to give permission and see how it goes. 

“There’s still some disgruntled people and there are concerns it is next to the cemetery because it’s a sensitive thing for people who are burying their loved ones, but we have to manage it now and I’m encouraging people to continue contacting the council with their concerns if the issue persists. 

“The track is there to be used and to safeguard our greenspaces and prevent anti-social behaviour in our communities. It’s a good scheme, it’s probably just in the wrong place. The people have spoken to say we need this but it could be further away.”