Speedway back after noise deal reached

Residents have protested at the volume of speedway racing events. File picture / Paul Estcourt

Speedway racing will be back at Auckland's Western Springs this summer after the promoter and residents reached agreement over noise limits.

The season had been in danger of being axed after a residents' group won an Environment Court order for Spring Promotions Ltd to comply with a maximum noise level of 85 decibels.

Spring Promotions appealed to the High Court, arguing that speedway, which dates back 75 years at the venue, had never been able to race at below that limit.

The parties today said they had reached agreement after two days of mediation that also involved the Auckland City Council.

The terms of the agreement would allow 10 events at Western Springs this season, beginning on November 26.

The noise limit would be 90 decibels at the venue's boundary for 60 per cent of the races and 88 decibels for the rest.

At least one weekend each month, as well as Auckland Anniversary Weekend and Waitangi Day, would be guaranteed race-free.

Springs Promotions general manager Dave Stewart said he was delighted with the agreement, which would allow for proper speedway racing at realistic noise levels.

"The outcome of the mediation talks means we can start looking towards a bright and positive future for drivers and fans alike, while ensuring we are able to be a good neighbour," he said.

Lawyer Martin Williams, representing residents, said the agreement demonstrated that those who lived near the track were not anti-speedway.

Residents had demonstrated their willingness to be good neighbours by agreeing to accept higher noise levels than permitted in the district plan in exchange for commitments by the promoter.

"All parties can hopefully now move forward on a basis of mutual respect and understanding having both made compromises to reach this solution," Mr Williams said.

Other measures agreed related to floodlighting, traffic plans and track preparation and clean-up.

The parties also said they would also work through environmental issues, adopt a noise-monitoring regime and consult over the best practicable options to achieve a long-term solution.

- NZPA