A planning application has been submitted to Blaenau Gwent Council for a motor racing development in Ebbw Vale called the Circuit of Wales by the Heads of the Valleys Development Company..

The scheme proposes a 3.5-mile long race track, 4x4 circuit, international kart track and a motocross track on 830 acres of land north of Ebbw Vale close to the Rassau Industrial Estate.

Michael Carrick, chief executive at Heads of the Valleys Development Company, said: "The circuit will provide sustainable jobs across a broad number of sectors. We're creating a brand new, vibrant environment for the region, while at the same time telling the rest of the world to look at all the great things that are happening in Wales."

In addition to the racing facilities the proposed development includes a technology park aimed at attracting research, development and support services in the automotive and motor sports sectors. Plus a motor sport race academy, retail floor space, a hotel and other leisure activities.

Local residents had voiced concerns about the noise impact during preliminary consultations, but the scheme has been redesigned, reducing the number of Motocross circuits from two to one, and relocating that circuit further away from homes.

Carrick says: "We are determined to keep people fully up to speed on the development as things progress and will continue being open and transparent with the community on all aspects of the project. The feedback received so far from the community has been extremely positive and people are genuinely excited by the opportunities that could come their way."

The proposals are expected to be determined by the planning authority in May.