An annual motor race at Watergate Bay has been given the green light to be held despite objectors attempting to bring the popular event to a grinding halt.

Organisers of the Watergate Bay Sprint have been granted permission to close the B3276 to stage the race on September 16 and 17

A number of residents called for the event to be stopped as they have to take a 14 mile detour while the race is held, which they say is unacceptable during the cost of living and climate crisis.

But the organisers have been given the go ahead to stage the race by the sport’s governing body Motorsport UK after holding a consultation with residents, St Mawgan-in-Pydar Parish Council and Newquay Town Council.

The findings were submitted to Cornwall Council Streetworks department which subsequently authorised the event, enabling Motorsport UK to grant the necessary permit.

Newquay Town Council’s planning and licensing committee had voted to object to the Watergate Bay Sprint due to the impact the proposed road closure would have on those who live and work within that area. 

Dave Brenton, the deputy event director, has acknowledged that although “many were supportive” of the event, concerns had been raised over the diversion route and disruption to the road infrastructure along with the environmental impact. 

He promised “better communication, timely route information and diversion route management” for residents. 

Dave said: “I and the entire organising team are very happy to have received the permit from Motorsport UK and I’d like to extend my thanks to every member of the local community who reached out to us over the consultation period,” he said.

“The event does cause a level of travel disruption to local residents over the weekend and going forward we are committed to better communication, timely information and diversion route management to give them plenty of prior warning of the event.”

“For some time, we have been looking at various carbon offset programmes, as we certainly appreciate the impact that any motorsport has on our environment. But with proper management and willingness to invest in a programme, we hope to ensure Watergate Bay Sprint doesn’t leave its mark in any way.”

Watergate Bay Sprint will also continue to donate profits to local charities. 

From its inception, Watergate Bay Motorsport has ensured charities like the Cornwall Air Ambulance have benefited from over £30,000 since 2018.