Karting arena plan 'put on hold'

Councillors hope to reach a compromise over the plan

A proposed indoor karting arena for Clackmannanshire has been put on hold following noise concerns.

Council officials say the planned centre in Alloa should be refused.

However, councillors are now hoping to reach a compromise over the plans, which were put forward by a developer in the area.

Clackmannanshire Council's planning convener Eddie Carrick said the authority wanted to back local projects which boosted the economy.

"The prospect of an attraction like this for the area is something everyone is keen to support," he said.

"However, our environmental health officers do have very real concerns about potential noise coming from the indoor arena, particularly since it is so close to homes. We have a duty to take account of that."

The council's regulatory committee has continued the application while officials meet with the applicant, Tom Duncan, to resolve the concerns.

Mr Carrick added: "The applicant has made it plain that they are keen to do whatever it takes to make the necessary improvements to the site, but obviously cost is a factor.

"We are hopeful that there is a middle ground."

The karting arena would be based in a converted warehouse, currently used for storage, on Alloa's Whins Road.