The organisers of the Jim Clark Memorial Rally have been greatly encouraged by recent developments in the Scottish Parliament to help overcome the barriers to closed public road rallying in Scotland. Such a move will bring the country into line with other parts of the UK including Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands, Wales and England.
The recently concluded Public Consultation on the new proposals proved there was an overwhelming desire for such a move which would benefit not only motor sports fans, but also many other sporting interests and pursuits. The Public Consultation process attracted 3,788 replies of which slightly more than 98% were positive.
Business and commercial interests, as well as local authorities, also welcomed these positive steps especially on the Isle of Mull and in the Scottish Borders which led the way in establishing the sport on 'mainland' UK.
To that end, the organisers of the Jim Clark Memorial Rally have been maintaining contact and continued working with Scottish Borders Council and Police Scotland in hopeful anticipation that rallying could return sooner rather than later. Arrangements and plans are already in place to facilitate a quick resumption of the sport on completion of the parliamentary process.
Potential rally competitors, officials, volunteers and fans right across the UK are therefore advised to 'pencil in' two important dates, 24th and 25th May 2019, and plan their routes to the eastern Scottish Borders.
With a bit of luck and goodwill, it should soon be possible to allow all those interested to confirm their diary date in ink!
The Analysis report can be read at: https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/public-consultation-analysis-report-motorsports-on-closed-public-roads/
In anticipation of more positive news, it would be helpful if those wishing to Marshal on this historic event could register their interest here http://www.jimclarkrally.org/contact-us.html
and please keep your eye on the JCMR website for updates:
Statement issued by: The Jim Clark Memorial Rally executive committee, 4th March 2019