Still no decision on Rally IoM

Gov't hopes to make announcement next week

There has still been no decision made on whether Rally Isle of Man will go ahead, less than eight weeks before the scheduled start date.

The event is due to take place between 13 and 15 September.

An emergency motion regarding the shutting of highways for Rally Isle of Man was tabled for Tuesday's Tynwald sitting.

Chris Robertshaw MHK wanted to ask that Infrastructure bosses work with organisers of the rally, after the department refused to sanction road closures for the event on safety grounds.

However, the motion was withdrawn.

Officials from the department had organised to meet with representatives of the rally yesterday (Thurs 19), to discuss the situation.

Rally Isle of Man told Manx Radio no decision had been made at the meeting, and it's thought the DoI now hopes to have an announcement early next week.

Around 130 cars were due to compete in the rally, including competitors and spectators based off-Island who've already booked their travel arrangements.

The long-standing annual competition forms part of the British Rally Championships.