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Total 964 letters for and 85 against plans to redevelop Lydden Hill Race Circuit, Dover

Supporters of a plan to redevelop a rallycross circuit outnumber objectors more than 10 to one.

The application will be voted on by planning councillors tomorrow night.

Motor racing takes place 52 days a year. Library picture: Matt Bristow
Motor racing takes place 52 days a year. Library picture: Matt Bristow

There are 964 letters supporting the scheme and 85 against it.

Bosses at Lydden Hill Race Circuit want to demolish their original office building and replace it with one comprising a VIP centre.

They also want a new access road for the centre at Wootton.

Neighbours supporting the scheme say the development will benefit tourism and the local economy as the circuit attracts visitors from around the world.

They add that it would not harm the countryside.

Major changes are planned for the circuit. Picture: Matt Bristow
Major changes are planned for the circuit. Picture: Matt Bristow

Supporters also believe that it would provide employment, support local businesses and provide activities for families.

It is also argued that the development would reduced vehicles movements through the village of Lydden and that there is more noise from the A2 than the circuit.

Supporter sum up that the track is part of Kent's heritage and that Lydden Hill is the home of rallycross.

Those against the proposal fear increased noise and disturbance as the sounds can already be heard two miles away.

They say that the area's roads are clogged up during race days and the development would worsen that.

Protesters also believe that the economic benefits of the scheme are overestimated. They say the circuit does not support local jobs.

Circuit bosses want to knock down the site's existing two-storey administration building and put up a two to three-floor pavilion structure.

That would include office space, external viewing areas, function areas and six garages.

A new access road from Geddinge Lane is additionally wanted plus extra land for parking.

The applicants are also asking for permission to carry on motor racing events 52 days a year.

But they also want to use the site for bicycle training and racing and learning and advanced driver tuition including for the police.

They are in addition asking to hold corporate events and motorsport experience days.

Dover District Council planning officers are recommending approval of the scheme.

The application will be heard by the planning committee at 6pm tomorrow and the council headquarters at the White Cliffs Business Park in Whitfield.

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