Go-kart track revving up to get green light
PLANNERS RECOMMEND SCOTSWOOD RACE TRACK APPROVAL
Reporter PETROL heads could soon be revving up on a go-karting track that is set to be given the green light.
Teamsport wants to transform Armstrong Works’ Unit B, on Newcastle’s Scotswood Road, into a track big enough for 20 drivers to race.
The firm operates 19 indoor tracks across the country, including sites in London, Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester.
They are all in industrial areas, which Teamsport argues are the most suitable places for indoor karting circuits.
The track would operate with a booking system, with a maximum of 20 karts on the circuit at one time.
It is expected to bring in 4,000 people each month – an average of 125 per day.
Developers said noise from the karts will have a lower impact than the industrial activity going on near the site, where Reece Group manufactures military equipment.
A planning application submitted to the city council said: “No noise impacts to residents are anticipated from vehicles or servicing because these movements will be at a lower frequency when compared to the existing use or an industrial use.
“No noise impacts are anticipated from congregation of visitors, as a dedicated reception/foyer area is provided where visitors will meet, and as a result of Teamsport’s management measures which require visitors to book prior to attending a session.”
The unit which Teamsport hopes to open in has been vacant for nearly two years. Its application argues the track will bring employment, training and leisure opportunities to a “highly accessible” part of Newcastle.
The application has plans for 63 parking spaces including four disabled spaces.
And it points out there are around four buses an hour from Scotswood Road to the centre of Newcastle.
It concludes: “In summary, the development proposal offers the opportunity to secure sustainable employment generation and economic growth within the area, with a use that is most suited to industrial locations such as this.”
Newcastle City Council’s planning bosses have been advised to give the track the go-ahead.
A report said the proposals are considered compatible with the surrounding area and there are enough parking spaces to make sure it does not create any dangers to road safety.
Conditions on the application include the facility only being used as a go-karting track and a limit on noise generated by the site.
Planners will make a decision on Friday at the Civic Centre.