Welsh Conservatives secure safeguards on future of Welsh motorsport

Welsh Conservatives today sought assurances from the Welsh Government over the long-term future of forest stage rallying in Wales, which is currently under serious threat over rising road repair charges proposed by Natural Resource Wales’ (NRW).

NRW has recently indicated its intention to almost double the charges to the industry for use of and maintenance of roads. Contrastingly, the motorsport association has inEngland and Scotland already negotiated the implementation of a modest increase for similar charges of just 0.7%.
Speaking in the Senedd Chamber today, Welsh Conservative Shadow Spokesperson for Economy, Transport and Sport, Russell George AM, asked the Cabinet Secretary for the Economy Ken Skates AM whether he would intervene personally in negotiations to agree a new contract between NRW and the Motorsports Association.

The Cabinet Secretary responded to say that he recognised the “iconic profile” of motorsport in Wales and gave assurances that he would be involved in negotiations with NRW over the charges, saying he was confident that a “mutually agreeable compromise” could be reached.

Mr Skates also confirmed that he would consult with the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs on the issue and agreed to bring forward a statement on the matter in the coming weeks.

Speaking outside the Senedd Chamber, Russell George AM, said:

“Wales’ tourism industry benefits from forest stage rallying to the tune of £15m a year, while motorsport as a whole brings £3billion to the economy annually.

“Motorsport is therefore of vital economic importance and the Welsh Government must do all in its power to safeguard its future sustainability.

“The Cabinet Secretary has confirmed he is confident that an agreeable compromise can be reached over NRW’s proposals which will bring some comfort to those in the motorsport industry.

“I look forward to hearing in more detail the outcome of the Cabinet Secretary’s negotiations with the NRW which I hope will serve to end the uncertainty and worry currently hanging over the sector.”