NOT a single word of discussion was needed before plans to move the region's only motorcycle training centre to Pucklechurch were abandoned by councillors.

The proposed centre, in Shortwood Road, was strongly opposed by planners, the parish council and people living in the village.

South Gloucestershire Council received almost 150 letters from residents who did not want UK Motorcycle Training Centres to open in Pucklechurch.

Speaking on behalf of a number of villagers, Raymond Slade said people had already put up with "more than enough".

He said: "We already have a prison, and have worn extensions to that, and an industrial estate which has increased village traffic five-fold. It is not good enough.

"There are 14 existing residents in the bungalows nearby who are aged and infirm - they deserve some consideration. It is about time we stood up for one another."

Members of South Gloucestershire Council's development control (east) committee unanimously decided to reject the plans after hearing Mr Slade's objections and those of Cllr Sandra Grant, who represents the Boyd Valley area including Pucklechurch.

She said: "The site is within the Green Belt and if allowed, would impact on residents and adversely affect the village.

"There are sheltered houses quite near to where they want to put the cycle track and I have concern for the senior citizens nearby.

"There would be additional traffic, poor visibility, and increased pollution and noise."

A similar but slightly smaller scheme was thrown out by the council in 2000 and later dismissed on appeal.

Area planning manager Donna Whinham deemed the development an "unacceptable" use of the Green Belt.

However, bosses of the Bristol centre, currently situated at Hambrook but due to close within 18 months, argue training is non-profitable and educational and is therefore appropriate in such a rural area.

The company has looked for other sites in Bristol but admits the cost in the city is too high for the amount of land needed. The applicants also said it is the council's responsibility to ensure facilities for motorcycle training are in line with EU regulations, which those at Hambrook are not.

Bosses, who did not attend the planning meeting, said in a statement that the centre would provide a "vital role" in reducing accidents involving motorcyclists.

South Gloucestershire Council last year launched a campaign to increase the safety of motorcyclists on the region's roads but councillors refused the application because of the detriment to residents and the rural, peaceful environment.

After the meeting, Mr Slade told the Gazette he was "delighted" with the decision.