AS Blaenau Gwent councillors debate the future of the proposed Circuit of Wales racetrack in Ebbw Vale, campaigners have called for the plan to binned on environmental grounds.

Gwent Wildlife Trust, the Brecon Beacons National Park, and National Resources Wales have all objected to the proposal for environmental, ecological and landscape reasons.

Tom Clarke, CEO of Gwent Wildlife Trust explains ‘This development would destroy wildlife and release pollution on a vast scale. Whilst we understand the need for local jobs, we don’t want to see the council throw away their amazing environmental assets for a white elephant that may not deliver on its promises’.

Gwent Wildlife Trust added that a Blaenau Gwent officers’ report recommends approval on grounds of overriding economic interest, despite stating that the scheme is ‘contrary to both local and national policy’, and that the circuit would ‘irrevocably change the noise, visual and ecological environment of the site and its environs’.

The trust is appealing to the Welsh Government to call in the application on the ground that it does not conform to sustainable development principles.