The measures each of us can take
All of the bodies involved with making the case for motorised motorsport in forests state that sending a personal email will be more effective in creating a reasoned argument, with suggestions on how to structure such an email including stating in the subject that this is a response to the DEFRA Landscapes Review and writing a clear opening statement that defines which questions you are responding to (questions 13-17).
Further suggestions include:
Explaining your interest in the issue
Describing the importance of maintaining motorsport events in the countryside to yourself personally, any family members who enjoy the sport and any clubs, associations, teams or series to which you are affiliated
Explaining the benefits that you, your family or your fellow club members gain from motorsport or if your business or employment depends upon the sport’s continued presence
Explaining who participates in the motorsport events that you attend and how many livelihoods depend upon those events taking place
Explaining any other ways in which you access the countryside – many in the motorsport community also walk, cycle, horse ride etc. to explain how diverse a user-group motorsport represents
Describing how motorsport interacts with and shares the countryside with others
Explaining why motoring is essential to any spectators, officials or competitors who have additional needs to access the countryside and the benefits that this gives them
Giving examples of any activities that the sport, its participants or its supporters have undertaken to benefit the countryside – such as volunteer work, response/rescue, lane repairs, litter picking, sharing advice and education with others or reporting incidents
Sharing any financial information relating to the benefits seen by the local community from hosting events would prove valuable, illustrating the impact on the economy, whether it be fuel, food, accommodation or visiting other attractions in the area as part of the trip
Explaining how much competitors spend on preparing and maintaining their vehicles in parts, in labour and in tax to contribute to the broader national economy
Including any relevant professional interests, memberships, or qualifications
Advocating for access without prejudice, make your arguments positive and in favour of access for all
The consultation questionnaire can be accessed at consult.defra.gov.uk/ future-landscapes-strategy/governmentresponse-to-the-landscapes-review/ consultation/intro/ while longer and more detailed submissions will be accepted via email at landscapesconsultation@defra.gov.uk.
The consultation closes at 2345hrs on
Saturday, April 9.