Oaktree Arena was a speedway racing track located near Highbridge, Somerset, England. It was 300 metres (330 yd) in length, with banking around the edge for spectators, and was built alongside the M5 motorway. The venue also featured a restaurant used for weddings and events, and hosted property auctions, car boot sales, a golf driving range, and a boxing gym.
History
The speedway track was constructed in 1999 by Australian speedway rider Glyn Taylor and opened for racing in time for the 2000 season. The Somerset Rebels team, founded by promoter Andy Hewlett, entered the 2000 Speedway Conference League as the venue's primary tenant. Hewlett had been searching for a site in Somerset to host speedway when he was offered the location by a local farmer who had previously hosted banger racing meetings there.
Prior to the 2009 speedway season, the Somerset Rebels team was purchased by Bill Hancock, the owner of the Oaktree Arena.
Closure
In 2021, following financial difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the venue was closed by the owners, the Hancock family. The Somerset Rebels speedway team, which had competed at the track for two decades, ceased operations as a result.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Highbridge, Somerset, England |
| Coordinates | 51°13′49″N 2°57′21″W |
| Surface | Speedway (shale) |
| Opened | 2000 |
| Closed | 2021 |
| Track length | 300 metres (330 yd) |
| Tenants | Somerset Rebels (2000–2019) |
