HUNDREDS of forms from people backing the Circuit of Wales automotive centre of excellence have been submitted to planners ahead of a decision on the project.

The proposed £250m development represents the biggest investment in the UK automotive sector in more than half a century, and politicians and citizens are calling on Blaenau Gwent county borough council to give the green light to a project that will create thousands of jobs in the region.

The Circuit of Wales Youth Ambassadors spent a morning sorting through the forms at the new Co-operative Communities First base in Winchestown, Nantyglo, ahead of a submission to the council’s planning department.

Alun Davies, AM for Blaenau Gwent said: “This is a fantastic proposal and the benefits to the borough are endless. Not only would it increase tourism, and help existing businesses with a massive influx of visitors, but the potential for employment is huge.”

Unlike most planning decisions, this one will be decided by the full council due to the project’s significance.

Michael Carrick, chief executive of the Heads of the Valleys Development Company behind the proposal, said: “The fact that so many people have taken the time to sit down and put pen to paper to write about their hopes for the project is encouraging.”