Law change could finally see return of Superprix
NEW laws allowing the return of the Birmingham Superprix have come into force – with the Government encouraging big cities to host races, saying the influx of tourists would provide huge economic benefits.
Birmingham’s Superprix saw the city centre transformed into a road race circuit each year from 1986 to 1990, with cars travelling at speeds of up to 200mph.
Thousands took to the streets to watch the race, which required a special Act of Parliament – the Birmingham Road Race Bill in 1985.
Birmingham remains the only British city to have hosted legalised street racing, and now everything is in place for the Superprix to make a comeback.
Laws in the Government’s Deregulation Act now give councils the power to suspend the Road Traffic Act for individual events. This means they can lift speed limit restrictions for races, for example.
Ministers say the move is designed to allow small races hosted by local communities, bigger European rallies or a spectacular race in an English city along the lines of the Monaco Grand Prix.
Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “Britain is a world leader in the motorsport industry and this will further cement our position.
“New road races will boost economies through increased local tour- ism and hospitality, and offer community opportunities such as volunteering.”
The move was backed by Birmingham-born former Formula 1 World Champion Nigel Mansell.
He said: “This is a great move forward for the sport and will bring visitors and pride to parts of the country that wish to stage such events.”
One of the leading candidates for West Midlands mayor, Tory Andy Street, said the laws would allow him to press ahead with plans for a major new race along the streets of Birmingham should he win.
He plans to bring back the Superprix – but this time using modern electric cars as other cities around the world have done.
Mr Street said: “These new laws will make it so much easier to overcome some of the obstacles around putting on these events, provided we can get the necessary permission locally.”
“I have committed to making the West Midlands a centre for electric and driverless vehicles, building our strengths in advanced manufacturing.
“A revival of the Superprix – which I attended and which is fondly remembered by West Midlanders – focused towards racing in new technologies would demonstrate our growing confidence as a region.
“It would be a tourism draw for the region, bringing motorsports fans from all over the world but it would also be a showcase for our global excellence in this emerging industry.”