Donnington Park, one of Britain’s most historic race circuits, could have over 4,000 new homes next door housing an estimated 10,000 residents, if plans submitted to North Leicestershire District Council are approved. The new development, named Isely Woodhouse, could also include three schools, shops and hotels. Of the houses, 1200 would be classed as affordable, which ticks a key government policy aim – everyone seems to agree that we need more housing, especially at the lower end of the market.

The question is how Isely Woodhouse would affect Donnington Park. Would some of the new residents complain about the noise? On the plans, the closest part of the development to the circuit is listed as ‘mixed use/employment’ rather than residential. But this has happened before – in the 1920s, residents close to Brooklands took their anti-noise campaign to the High Court, and the result was the famous Brooklands silencer. A decision from North Leicestershire District Council on the Donnington development is expected in October 2025.

At the BMF, Jim Freeman said, “This one’s an old issue, I can remember the effect on Brands Hatch with a similar development, it altered the track layout and use , particularly the long circuit. There’s a cliché about urban escapees moving into idyllic rural villages and then complaining about cocks crowing too early in the morning and that Farmer Gile’s pigs stink, never mind the sound of the church bells. In an urban environment flats being developed next to music venues, which have existed for decades, with the new occupiers buying off plan, then complaining about the noise. Caveat Emptor in my book, but the average council doesn’t necessarily see it that way. If there’s one ray of sunshine, modern bike racing is much quieter than in the past and if the market really does go electric it’s going to be a non-issue. ”

Written by Peter Henshaw

Top image courtesy of Donnington Park Race Circuit