Descendants of society diarist Henry 'Chips' Channon are embroiled in a planning dispute with neighbors over the use of motocross tracks on the Channon family's multi-million pound Essex estate, Kelvedon Hall. The estate's current owners have applied retrospectively to Brentwood Council for permission to keep two tracks and three buildings that were constructed without prior approval.
The tracks are currently in use, operating on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The application also seeks approval for more frequent usage, including private and corporate riding sessions. Those behind the proposal had initially believed that activity could occur for up to 28 days a year without requiring planning permission, but the council became involved following a noise complaint in April.
Kelvedon Hatch Parish Council noted at a meeting that the motocross operation could constitute a statutory noise nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Tests conducted at the estate involved eight motocross bikes, and consultants also modeled the potential impact of up to 20 bikes operating simultaneously. IMAGE6
The dispute has already impacted plans for 'The Only Way Is SX,' a planned motocross event intended for the estate. Originally slated as a major family-friendly motorsport event, organizers have postponed it until 2027 while the planning issues are resolved.
Kelvedon Hall also hosts 'The Right Track,' a program that utilizes motocross and other activities to engage with young people, including offenders and those at risk of offending. Essex Police have previously commended the initiative as a valuable opportunity for young individuals.
The grand mansion, built in 1743, was purchased by Henry 'Chips' Channon in 1937. The American-born Conservative Member of Parliament and socialite described the estate, which he restored with architect Gerald Wellesley, as a 'dream of quiet well-bred tranquillity.' IMAGE2, IMAGE5
Channon, a prominent figure in pre-war British society known for his candid diaries detailing royalty, politicians, and aristocrats, continued to write about Kelvedon Hall until his death in 1958. IMAGE4
The estate passed to his son Paul, later Lord Kelvedon, and subsequently to Paul's son Henry. Upon Henry's death in 2021, ownership transferred to his widow, Katie Channon, who is connected to the Guinness brewing dynasty through marriage. IMAGE7