IT IS concerning that Gwent’s five council leaders feel the need to write to the First Minister about the proposed Circuit of Wales motorsport track.

The track, planned for Rassau, near Ebbw Vale, brings with it the promise of hosting MotoGP races.

More importantly, it holds the key to unlocking the potential for thousands of new jobs in an area that has one of the highest rates of unemployment in Britain.

The letter from the council leaders to Carwyn Jones contains more than a touch of exasperation.

They are basically asking the First Minister what, if anything, is holding up the project.

The 830-acre project was the subject of a 10-day planning inquiry earlier this year.

There has been much opposition to the plans from environmentalists.

This newspaper has been a long-time supporter of the Circuit of Wales.

We know how important it is for the economy of an area that has had the rough end of the stick for far too long.

Planning delays have already seen one MotoGP moved to another track, hosting on behalf of the Circuit of Wales which has a long-term deal to stage the British motorcycle grand prix. In fact, there have been too many delays.

A positive response is needed from the Welsh Government to our council leaders.