Biker's wall of sound advice

Feb 4 2007 By Robert Weatherall, The Sunday Sun

Businessman Jimmy Rimmer fears that a proposed development of 208 homes next door to his motorcycle training school will result in massive complaints from future householders. Click here to see why he is so worried.

A businessman who fears his livelihood could be taken away from him is revving up for a battle.
Jimmy Rimmer fears that if plans to build 208 homes near to his Durham-based motorcycle training school get the go-ahead it could mean the end of his business.

Jimmy claims that once a new development of flats and houses are built just yards from his training site it will be inevitable that new residents will complain about the noise levels.

And to prove to councillors how noisy a typical motorbike training class can be Jimmy is intending to turn up at the council planning meeting, which could give the go-ahead to the development, with around half a dozen motorbikes and scooters.

The 39-year-old said: "I really don't think anyone has taken into account the fact that when you have half a dozen motorbikes running around on a training yard it makes a hell of a noise."

Jimmy has run his business, Ace Motorcycle Training, from the site just off Durham's Finchale Road for the last 11 years but he fears he could be forced to move on if the houses are built.

He explained: "The developers are suggesting that they build a 3m high wall to protect the homes from the noise but that won't stop it. I have consulted my solicitor and he says there have been cases where long established businesses have had homes built next to them and when residents then start to object the businesses have had to alter their work patterns.

"I employ 22 people here and we train around 3000 motorcyclists each year. We work seven days a week from 6.30am in the morning. I find it strange that a developer would want to build houses here but I find it even more strange that someone would want to buy one.

"If you pay £140,000 for a house and want to enjoy sitting in your garden during the summer the last thing you will want will be scooters revving next door.

"Also each day when we start we have to check all the bikes for health and safety reasons. That means every bike gets ridden around the yard first thing when some people will still be in bed."

Jimmy plans to hold an example of a typical motorbike lesson in Durham Market Square on February 14 when councillors will meet to discuss the planning application.

He explained: "I don't want this to be seen in the wrong way or as a strong-arm tactic.

"I merely want the councillors who walk into that meeting to be fully aware of the facts and the noise levels my business makes. I am not saying homes shouldn't be built, just that plans need to be altered to impose more noise protection for residents."