A RETURN to speedway for Peterborough remains alive after the local planning committee voted to refuse a development plan at the iconic Showground venue.
The Panthers’ 53-year-existence was put on hold when they were unable to compete this year as developers AEPG pursued plans for 1,500 houses on the site – well in excess of the 650 stipulated by the local plan.
Whilst one application for 850 houses was accepted, the second for a further 650 which would have seen the removal of the existing speedway site, was rejected by six votes to three.
The reason for the refusal was that the scheme was deemed to be in contravention of the National Planning Policy framework, with the benefits of the development not compensating for the loss of the existing facility.
Naturally Panthers’ consortium members were delighted with the outcome.
Carl Johnson said on social media: “How good did that feel to walk away knowing we’ve saved our club, the correct decision was made with the 650 development being rejected.
“I still feel the planning committee jumped the gun by accepting the 850 with doubts over access and it should of been deferred for 6 months but we will take this small win and just proves you should never give up on your dreams.
“A massive thank you to all the supporters that turned out to show their support, it means a lot to the consortium to see the passion that still flows through you.
“We keep fighting for you guys, you deserve to have speedway and the city deserves to have speedway.”
Words by Holeshot Media.
Images by Taylor Lanning.