England introduces new law allowing races on public roads

Public roads in England have received the go-ahead to apply to local authorities to shut public roads to host racing events. The new law is set to be introduced on Monday, which is seen as a chance to boost tourism in England.

Applications would be reviewed while the final decision would come down to councils, police and other local bodies, according to the BBC.  Fixtures that can be applied for range from local events to international races, such as a city-based Grand Prix.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones pointed at the recent boost in cycling as a reference point for the new motoring events rule, and how it could benefit all: "This could be a real boost for the economies of an area. The examples would be in cycling.

"We had the Tour de France here, we had a Grand Depart in Yorkshire a couple of years ago and roads were closed as part of that event and thousands of people came to watch it. It had a huge impact, not just for boosting cycling in the UK, but for boosting tourism wherever it went."

Liberty Media, who completed the acquisition of Formula 1 in January, have already voiced their interest in hosting a Grand Prix in London, however air pollution levels would have to be monitored by Mayor Sadiq Kahn before a decision was made.

"In considering whether to support a Grand Prix in London, the mayor would need to see what the impacts are on air pollution," said a spokesperson for the mayor.

Motor Sports Association chief executive Rob Jones says that the new laws will allow them to bring motorsport closer to the people of England by introducing city-based events: "We can now take motorsport to the people, and in turn those local hosting communities have the opportunity to benefit from the economic boost that these events may provide."

Fergal Walsh