RACING at Matchams Stadium will continue for the foreseeable future after plans to build homes and a hotel on the site were withdrawn.

Hertfordshire property development company Eaglebeam wanted to erect 50 four-bed detached homes, a hotel and multi-purpose leisure and business centre on the site of the present stock circuit.

The proposals also included dedicating around 100 acres of heathland, presently used for motocross and other activities, as a nature conservation area.

Head of planning and development control at East Dorset District Council, Mike Hirsh, said the scheme had been withdrawn following negotiations with the developers and council officers.

"It followed our advice that it would be recommended for refusal if it was not withdrawn," he said.

"We considered that it was contrary to green belt policy and it was also likely to adversely affect the designated heathlands site adjacent.

"There was also an objection from English Nature identifying these issues."

And he added: "The amount of development they were proposing was not sustainable."

The stock car stadium opened in 1954 and is now the oldest surviving short track oval.

The venue has also long been used for offroad motorcycling including the classic Hants Grand National scrambles, speedway, karting, Sunday markets, quad biking and paintballing.

But increasing use in recent years has led to growing complaints over noise and an appeal is due to start at Bournemouth magistrates court next Monday over an abatement order issued by the district council.

Mr Hirsh said: "Given the amount of negotiations, it is difficult to see any substantial redevelopment taking place unless it accords with green belt policy."

First published: November 15