A PAIR who submitted plans for an indoor motorbike arena are delighted that plans have been approved and they can now get ahead with the building work.

An application was submitted to Allerdale council’s planning department to seek permission for the change of use of the shed to an indoor motorbike arena alongside associated operations, including changes to the external appearance of the shed, the formation of a parking area and the installation of a package treatment plant and soakaway.

These plans have now been given the green light and the change of use can now start at the site in Kelsick, near Abbeytown.

A noise statement issued as part of the plans noted that: “The intentions would be to operate on Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons. There would be a total of four electric motorbikes on the track at anyone one time.

“Petrol powered bikes would not be used on the track. The track would be entirely inside the building, incorporating bends, straights and jumps over a dirt course.”

The plans were submitted by Gregg Hall and Stephen Biggin.

Mr Hall explained that he was extremely pleased they had been approved and the pair could now move forward with preparing the barn for the arena.

The farmer explained: “I’m chuffed to bits. It took a little while to get planning passed and this is a big stepping stone so we’re really happy. At the moment we are stripping down upholstery equipment so we can get back to an empty shell with the shed.

“Then building work will start commencing during the winter period and into the spring.”

It is hoped the facilities will be open in early summer.

“It’s basically 'come along, hire an electric bike, have a bit of fun',” he added.

“It’ll be a safe and warm environment with a viewing area for spectators. It’ll be a good day or good night of having some good fun. It’s going to be a bit of an adrenaline rush.”

Mr Hall and his partner have always had an interest in motorsport which helped to push the plans. He said: “I’ve always had a passion for motorsport. I wanted to utilise the sheds in a better way.

“My friend who I’ve got into partnership with has a similar feeling. We want to make people happy and have a good time.”

Mr Hall said: “It will be a unique opportunity. There will be no noise from the bikes, which is great, and it will also be more environmentally friendly as opposed to petrol bikes.”

The idea for the area can after a brainstorming session on how to diversify the farm.

He said: “Farming is tough and we wanted to do something that would cater to everyone of all ages. The bikes give off no noise or emissions and everyone we have spoken to about it seems really excited.

“We hope we will be able to open in the summer next year. People will then be able to enjoy the bikes in a controlled environment.”