Croft future in doubt

The future of racing at Croft circuit near Darlington is in doubt after last week’s High Court judgement awarded three local residents around £150,000 in compensation for noise issues.

The circuit, which first hosted racing in 1928, has appealed against the decision and is expected to hear within the next two to three weeks whether they have been successful.

If not, Croft owners, the British Automobile Racing Club (BARC), could also face legal costs estimated at £700,000 as well as the £300,000 to cover their own legal fees.

But it’s not just a money issue for Croft circuit. Should BARC lose the case Croft would be open to other similar claims from individuals and there could be serious ramifications for other British motor racing circuits.

BARC Chief Executive Denis Carter told MCN: “We’re waiting to hear the outcome of our appeal. One would like to think that we will win (the appeal) but I’m not overly confident.”

Croft, like all the racing circuits in the UK, operates under strict noise regulations. Carter says his circuit adheres to the restrictions but that hasn’t prevented this private legal case, which if successful, could set a precedent for others to bring similar cases.

Carter said: “We’re already operating under restrictions, which has been our argument all along. If we don’t win this case, it may have far-reaching consequences.”

The BARC, formed in 1912, also runs Thruxton, Mallory Park, Pembrey race circuits plus hillclimb venues Harewood and Gurston Down. It bought Croft from Croft PromoSport Ltd, previously owned by the Croft Estate, in late 2006.