A leisure firm is planning to open a £4.5 million two-storey karting circuit later this year.

The new attraction at the Longfield Road retail park in Tunbridge Wells is set to welcome thrill-seeking racers from December.

Competitors at the Elite Raceway track will tackle a 340 metre indoor circuit using eco-friendly electric karts which can reach speeds of up to 40mph.

The project is the brainchild of Elite Leisure Collection, formerly known as Markerstudy Leisure, which owns and operates venues and attractions such as Bewl Water and One Warwick Park Hotel. It is believed the karting circuit could create around 17 new full-time jobs and eight part-time roles.

A spokesman for the firm behind the plans said: "This is another major investment for us in Tunbridge Wells creating new jobs and attracting more visitors.

"We're very excited to bring such an attraction to the town."

It will cost drivers - who must be 10 year old or over - £25 per session at the new racing centre.

The news comes a week after a planning application to save Buckmore Park was rejected by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells