Report on speedway noise options due out in May

A report on the best noise options for the controversial Western Springs speedway in Auckland is expected by the end of May.

The speedway came under fire in 2004 for regularly exceeding the 85 decibel limit allowed in its resource consent, and is operating this summer under a temporary agreement.

The Auckland City Council newsletter City Scene said a commissioner's report by former High Court judge Peter Salmon, QC, was likely to be released by the end of May.

It will be used by the council to help shape future decisions about the speedway's operation.

The report, which will recommend the best practicable options for the speedway, will be based on discussions with stakeholders, engineering experts, the Resource Management Act and public feedback.

Under this summer's agreement, the speedway has been able to hold 10 events at Western Springs this season, which began on November 26, provided that 60 per cent of the noise from the races is under 90 decibels and the rest under 88 decibels.

- NZPA