THE roar of motorbikes from a controversial activity park are “difficult to ignore”, according to a noise expert.

Melville Kenyon, who has more than 30 years’ experience in planning issues, told a public inquiry the noise from Action Park, off the A127 in Wickford, can clearly be heard above the sound of passing traffic.

Basildon Council has gone head-tohead with bosses from the park, at Bonville Farm, which has been operating without planning permission for seven years.

The council took enforcement action, after neighbours complained about noisy motocross bikes, rally cars and quad bikes.

Mr Kenyon’s assessments showed sound from the site can reach up to 65 decibels in surrounding residential gardens, which is equal to cars travelling down a dual carriageway.

He said: “The sound is a highpitched revving, so it’s difficult to ignore. It’s very noticeable and very different from the constant drone from nearby highways.

“Monitoring noise from motocross tracks is very complex. There are various factors which influence it, including the type or quantity of bikes, and the strength or direction of wind.”

Basildon Council also has concerns about damage to the green belt land, and dangers of traffic going in and out of the site.

More than 2,000 people who visit Action Park, which offers motorsports, shooting and an assault course, have signed a petition calling for it to stay open.

The inquiry continues.