IT IS always difficult balancing economic regeneration with the very real need to support and save our environment.

As we saw with the proposed second M4 around Newport there was a strong economic argument in favour of its creation. But there was an equally strong environmental campaign against it.

We foresee a similarly vociferous campaign against the plans for a £multi-million racing circuit on the outskirts of Ebbw Vale.

Of course there is much that is attractive about this plan.

The promise of thousands of jobs, both during construction and once the track and associated developments are up and running, is hugely attractive.

We would argue doubly so in an area like Blaenau Gwent which has suffered so much from a lack of major investment for so long.

The Heads of the Valleys Development Company is also promising that a proportion of the jobs created will go to local people.

Then there is the talk of 750,000 visitors to the track a year offering a £50m boost to the local economy.

Commentators are already talking about the Circuit of Wales as a serious competitor to Silverstone in attracting world class motor racing events.

But as we can see from Gwent Wildlife Trust’s comments today planning approval may not be all plain sailing and the debate has yet to be had.