A DISPUTE has broken out over proposals for a speedway circuit which backers say could inject thousands of pounds into the Teesdale economy.

The plan for the speedway training centre at the Barford Raceway track, near Barnard Castle, looks likely to be rejected when it is considered by councillors on Wednesday.

This is despite support from regional development agency One NorthEast, which has backed the project.

Ken Marshall, of Positive Promotions Ltd, which is behind the scheme, has accused planning officials at Teesdale District Council of attempting to wreck the project.

He says that the council has been against the speedway circuit from the outset and has refused to consider evidence in its favour.

But Ken Hughes, head of planning at the council, has responded to Mr Marshall's criticisms by saying he has failed to justify his claims that the project would have a greatly beneficial effect.

He has also said it was unfortunate that Mr Marshall has "personalised" his attacks on the council.

The proposed facility would be used to train young riders from all over the country.

Supporters say it would have a beneficial knock-on effect for the local economy.

A supporting business plan and an economic survey has been presented to Teesdale District Council, but so far it has failed to convince planning officials.

They are also concerned that a bid to extend a planning condition increasing the number of days that racing can take place at the Barford Raceway will create noise nuisance problems.

Mr Marshall said: "It is beyond belief that they are planning to turn this down. There is a huge amount of interest in speedway again, and Barnard Castle needs all the investment it can get at the moment.

"If this went ahead you would be talking, for instance, about a thousand extra bed and breakfast bookings a year for local villages.

"We have also carried out tests which have proved that noise is not a problem, but the council has failed to listen."

Mr Hughes said: "The applicant has failed to substantiate some of the claims that have been put forward.

"We have a balancing exercise here, and the company has a right to appeal if the decision is not their favour.