The ACU have been informed by Forestry England that they will allow the resumption of Motorsport events from 30th September 2021 as long as they meet the Covid 19 requirements in existence at that time. This is particularly disappointing as they had previously indicated that they would accept applications from Easter.
They have explained that they are committed to accommodate the huge demand for events and activities that has built up because of the pandemic and their staff are ‘flat out’ dealing with the demand from the general public at each stage of the Government roadmap along with the expected increased demand as more people take holidays at home because of the continuing restrictions on foreign travel. As a result, there is also the possibly that local staff may defer events due to capacity rather than just Covid-19.
We await a timetable from them for negotiation of a new national agreement, but until then they have applied a 5% increase on the fees charged in 2020. Also, we are seeking clarification that Organisers can submit applications for authorisation before 30th September to meet the usual timescale required.