PLANNERS have this afternoon said the British Motocross Grand Prix can go ahead this weekend despite breaches in the planning rules.

Some 4,000 spectators will be at Matterley Estate this weekend (June 26-27) for the major event.

On Wednesday afternoon a spokesperson for the British Motocross Grand Prix insisted the event would go ahead but declined to comment on the siituation with South Downs National Park and the planning requirements. 

According to the South Downs National Park planning authority, current regulations require organisers to submit an event management plan at least 60 days before the event.

This afternoon a spokesman for the authority, which has to give the go-ahead for such events, said it would allow the event to go ahead.

In an updated statement this afternoon (Friday) it said: “The Authority has only recently been made aware of the upcoming Motocross Event. The current planning permission requires the Organisers to submit an Event Management Plan (EMP) at least 60 days before the event for approval. This is to allow the Authority sufficient time to liaise with appropriate specialists to ascertain whether the EMP is acceptable.

"In addition, the Authority requires the organiser to detail the bird deterrent measures which have been undertaken in advance of the event.

"In both cases the information has been submitted outside of the required timetables which is regrettable, albeit we are aware the pandemic has meant many events are on / off /on which we recognise as a challenge.

"Despite the late submission of the required information, we have now determined the information provided is acceptable and the event can proceed. We have made it clear to the applicant that such information must be submitted at least 60 days in advance of any future motorcross events.”

As reported in this newspaper last week, organisers had also planned to close off Cheesefoot Head car park.

The event hotline number during the event, if it goes ahead, is 01962 855891. The pre-event contact number if required: 07498 244999. Email queries to info@britmxgrandprix.com.