Bike boss's anger as popular plans rejected

Alexa Brown 1605 - 1605 • Published 23 Jul 2008 09:00 0 Comments

A MELROSE adventure sports boss was left "disgusted" after the council turned down his bid to develop his motorcycle training and archery centre despite winning approval from tourism chiefs.

Tom Prentice, who currently runs his outdoor business from premises close to the town"s famous Chain Bridge, said councillors had misunderstood his intentions.

And slammed them after permission for his plans was rejected at a meeting of the Eildon Area Committee and Planning and Building Standards in Galashiels on Monday.

Visit Scotland backed the proposals to develop the popular centre, stating that the plans would benefit tourism in the area.

Mr Prentice told the Border Telegraph: 'The committee has completely misunderstood what I"m trying to do here.

'They were concerned about the speed of the bikes and the dangers they pose to walkers using the road, but in basic training the bikes only go at about 5 miles per hour.

'I have had support from local businesses and even from Visit Scotland, and the plans have still been rejected.'

Despite the refusal of the application, however, Mr Prentice intends to continue offering motorcyle training within his grounds, a service he believes is vital in the Borders.

'This is the only site in the South of Scotland where motorcycle training can be given. We need somewhere for training in this area, and I will continue to offer this to customers.'

The application was refused by committee members following a recommendation to reject the plans in a report by Planning and Building Standards based on concerns about noise levels, the safety of pedestrians using the road and the appearance of the area.

Councillor Kenneth Gunn of Selkirkshire area said: 'I understand that there is a need for motorcyle training in the Borders. But I"ve walked in this area a lot and it is a busy place for both adults and children. It"s not a suitable site for this development.'

Councillor Riddle-Carr, Executive Member for Planning and Environment, said: 'I have visited the area and I think it is just too small. There is not enough space for this.'

However, the Driving Standards Agenct (DSA) had previously confirmed that the site was: 'within the size limits for such training.'

Mr Prentice now plans to appeal against the decision.

abrown@bordertelegraph.com

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This article appeared in Border Telegraph 23 Jul 08

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