AN extreme sports track in a village near Worcester has sparked safety concerns among hundreds of residents.

The proposed Centre of Gravity on Berrows Farm, Berrow Green, Martley, would be used for gravity sports such as street luge, skateboarding and inline skating and a petition against it already has more than 300 signatures.

The plans submitted to Malvern Hills District Council by Will Stephenson, of Clifton upon Teme, indicate the track would start at the base of Berrow Hill camp, an Iron Age hill fort and an ancient scheduled monument.

The objections are based on planning, environmental, historical and safety issues.

Steve Taylor, aged 52, of Berrow Green Road, said: “It’s an iconic hill and it is seen as an area of beauty that we have always looked at. People don’t want that changed or to see a black tarmac track and have the noise on certain days.

“I don’t see that fitting with where we are in the glorious Worcestershire countryside. I think it has really brought to the attention of the village how important it is to protect it for the future.

“My concern is that young children could try to get on the track outside of normal hours and it could create all sorts of safety issues.”

Tina Jaray, 69, of Kingswood Lane, said: “None of us are against the scheme but it is just completely the wrong place. It’s served by narrow tracks with no passing places.

“It’s a dangerous sport and if they are going to need an ambulance, I don’t think they will be able to.”

Martley Parish Council voted to recommend the application be refused.

The site would be used for tutoring and some events.

The centre would need the positioning of a temporary race office and storage structures, two secure 40ft shipping containers and a 32ft hut office.