PLANS for a quad bike circuit in the North-East are set to be given the go-ahead by planners.

The owners of Brierton Farm in Greatham, Billingham, Teesside, have applied for permission to create the track, car park, changing rooms and a viewing area, in a field.

The proposal, which will be discussed by the council on Thursday, includes creating a separate track for juniors, intermediaries and seniors with up to ten bikes running at a time.

If it is given permission the track will operate from 9am until sunset, or 8pm Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

Objections from neighbouring farms have been received about the application, raising concerns over noise, damage to wildlife, and access.

The Ramblers Association has also objected to the proposal suggesting noise from the site would effect people's enjoyment of the countryside and there will be no screening of the track.

But the council will be recommended to approve the application with conditions.

A spokesman said: "This is a new type of activity for Hartlepool. While it is considered that this is acceptable in principle there are some concerns particularly in relation to noise and disturbance to other nearby residents and other countryside users.

"In the circumstance, it is recommended that temporary permission, limited to 12 months duration, would be appropriate in the first instance, in order that activities on and around the site can be assessed."