The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), a ministerial department within the UK Government, is holding a Landscapes Review Consultation and Motorsport UK members can have their say.

The consultation questions whether the government should legislate to restrict the recreational use of motor vehicles on unsealed and minor tarmac roads, either with protected landscapes or everywhere.

As a result, this could restrict access to all ‘green lanes’, including those used recreationally, and represents a threat to Motorsport UK permitted events and the benefits of the sport.

As part of Motorsport UK’s Sustainability Strategy, launched in 2021, a strategic priority is to secure future use of non-fixed venues and develop means to operate with a reduced environmental impact.

Motorsport UK members can respond to the consultation HERE and make it clear that the community does not support the restriction of access for motor vehicles and to highlight the benefits of motorsport for recreation, health, well-being, the local economy and enjoyment of the countryside.

The consultation closes at 23:45 on Saturday 9 April.

The Auto Cycle Union (ACU) have prepared a guide for respondents which gives advice on responding to DEFRA’s Landscapes Review Consultation and is available HERE.