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Isle of Man Government investigating new site for off-road motorcycling

Tuesday, 17 March 2020

Isle of Man Government, in conjunction with the Isle of Man Auto Cycle Union (ACU), has been investigating a specific area in an environmentally sustainable location for a multi-discipline off-road motorcycle site. It is hoped that this site could be developed to provide a safe space for young children to practise and learn to ride.                   

Any potential location may require planning permission under the Town and Country Planning Act 1999 and a full Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) will be carried out by an independent, qualified ecological consultancy, with the findings considered in detail prior to a final decision. 

In the meantime, motorcycle clubs and organisations are reminded that they can apply to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture to hold practice days on the forestry estate for any age group of riders in just the same way they would apply for a competitive trial, enduro or recreational activity. The Department supports and hosts many well organised recreational events on its estate and already facilitates an average of 30 sanctioned motorcycle events each year.  

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture said: 

‘We are committed to supporting sustainable, safe and legal access to our estate and I look forward to working with the Isle of Man ACU, motorcycle clubs and other official organisations to deliver a permanent practice and recreational site for off-road motorcycling. 

‘I would like to reassure previous users of the Cross Vein site that the decision to restrict access was well considered and in the light of evidence and advice, was unavoidable. Surface water management within the area of Cross Vein will be a priority, as will stabilising the surface of the exposed spoil to further reduce the dispersal of contaminants.’

Access to Cross Vein was restricted following scientific studies, undertaken for the Peel marina project, showed sediment and water running from the Cross Vein mine and into the marina area was contaminated with toxic heavy metals and having a negative environmental impact, compounded by the recreational use of motorcycles in the area. The site had previously been fenced off, though the fences had been ignored by many.

The risk posed to the environment contravenes the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) Environmental Code which means the decision was taken without the need for a consultation process.

Tim Baker MHK, Member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, commented:

‘The decision to close Cross Vein is backed up by scientific analysis and absolutely makes sense from an environmental, health and marina perspective.

‘Motorcycles churning up fine dust is dangerous to the rider's health and has damaging ecological effects.

‘I am optimistic that the discussions held to date will lead to an appropriate and sustainable site being developed on which off-road motorcycling can be enjoyed safely.’

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