Agenda item

Report of the Chief Executive.

Members of the Executive were updated on actions taken since the meeting on 28 May 2014 and were informed of potential next steps in relation to noise control at Mallory Park race track. Actions taken by Real Motorsport Limited (RML) as operator of the race track were outlined to members, including installation of a track monitor and remote monitor which could be accessed by HBBC officers for ‘real time’ noise information, temporary barriers and attempts to improve relationships with the community.

Councillor Gould, as Executive member, drew attention to a letter received from RML and expressed the need to give some leeway to RML without abdicating control. He felt that RML had kept promises, albeit belatedly, and made good progress over the previous few months. He proposed that recommendations 2.1 and 2.3 of the report be supported, but that recommendation 2.2 be amended to read:

“2.2      That, notwithstanding the fact that RML only belatedly part completed the actions required in May 2014, but taking into account the commitments given in their letter of 24 September 2014, a revised Notice be served on RML, using strictly the principles clearly set out in the Appendix to this recommendation and subject to:

i)          the final legal detail of the Notice being delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Executive Lead Member;

ii)             a valid planning application for agreed (with the Council) permanent and remedial works being submitted by RML by 30 October 2014;

iii)            the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Executive Lead Member, being satisfied that the three conditions set out May 2014 have been met, including 'trackside' noise levels; and

iv)           the Chief Executive providing written confirmation to the Executive of the satisfactory completion of this work by 7 November 2014.”

The proposal was seconded by Councillor Bill and debate ensued thereon.

In response to members’ questions, the following points were made:

·         there would be a limit on ‘noisy days’ and an application would have to be made to increase this number on an ad hoc basis. No approach had yet been received or indicated for such an extension

·         other events, such as pop concerts, would be controlled by a premises licence so could not be included in the allowed ‘noisy’ activities

·         RML had moved towards hosting other, non-motor racing activities, which generated revenue but caused no noise pollution to residents

·         The noise attenuation measures would require planning permission and an update would be provided to the Executive in early November

·         The Notice would be enforceable subject to the Council’s Enforcement Policy and prosecution could result from any breaches.

It was moved by Councillor Gould, seconded by Councillor Bill and

RESOLVED –

(i)            The activity since 28 May 2014 and the potential implications, including the Appeal from RML currently being considered by the Courts, be noted;

(ii)           a revised Notice be served on RML, using strictly the principles clearly set out in the appendix and subject to:

(a)  the final legal detail of the Notice being delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Executive Lead Member;

(b)  a valid planning application for agreed (with the Council) permanent and remedial works being submitted by RML by 30 October 2014;

(c)  the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Executive Lead Member, being satisfied that the three conditions set out May 2014 have been met, including 'trackside' noise levels; and

(d)  the Chief Executive providing written confirmation to the Executive of the satisfactory completion of this work by 7 November 2014.

(iii)          A supplementary estimate of £40,000 to cover additional costs of monitoring / court activity be approved.