NOISY go-kart engines rumbling through a North Yorkshire village could soon be quietened after efforts to drown the din were strongly backed by councillors.

Julian Sturdy, Harrogate borough councillor for Marston Moor ward, tabled a notice of motion calling for action to cut down on noise from Tockwith Multi-Drive Centre, on Tockwith Airfield.

His motion states: "This council undertakes to use all powers at its disposal to control noise levels on Tockwith Airfield generated through go-karts and high performance cars which are damaging the quality of life for residents."

The motion was discussed at Tuesday's borough council meeting and won near unanimous backing from members.

Coun Sturdy said: "I am pleased the situation has not been dropped. A meeting has been arranged for later this month, at the airfield, which will be attended by myself, the centre owner, Simon Moore, and environmental health officers.

Mr Moore said: "We are in favour of the meeting and are glad it is going to go ahead. I am looking forward to discussing residents' concerns with the various parties involved."

"No decisions will be taken on how this issue might progress until after that meeting."

Mr Moore has previously called for any village residents who have a problem with the airfield to approach him with it.

This was welcomed by Coun Sturdy.

"If Mr Moore is willing to try to help the situation then that is fantastic," he said.

Resident Warren Watts, who has lived close to the airfield, in Prince Rupert Drive, for 27 years, welcomed progress on the issue.

He said: "I live a bit away from it, but there was one day when the noise was horrendous. It must be awful for the people who are right on top of it.

"I am glad it looks like something is going to be done about it."

Tockwith residents Joanne and John Stone, of The Green, backed the noise control efforts.

Mr Stone said: "We have been fighting this for 13 years. It can be really dreadful at times, we hope something can be done."

Updated: 08:31 Friday, July 18, 2003