Exciting Times Ahead for United Downs Raceway: New Lease Secured and Major Events Announced

Cornwall Council has agreed to a new 10-year lease for the United Downs Raceway near St Day, a move that has thrilled the Stock Car Racing community.

This decision ensures that the historic circuit, which first opened in 1962 as a go-kart track and was converted to a Stock Car Racing circuit in 1969, will continue its operations into an eighth decade.

A Historic Venue

United Downs Raceway is not just a racing circuit; it’s a cherished community asset. For over 60 years, it has been a hub for motorsport enthusiasts and a significant part of Cornwall’s sporting landscape. Recognised as an Asset of Community Value, the Raceway has hosted Stock Car Racing events in every decade since its conversion, fostering a strong local and regional following.

A Vision for the Future

Crispen Rosevear of promoters Autospeed expressed his excitement about the new lease. “We have been working on the new long-term lease for more than a year,” Crispen said. “Our primary wish was to be given a decent length of time to open the door to investment into making the facilities better for drivers and race fans.”

The lease agreement also paves the way for addressing environmental sustainability at the Raceway. “We have been invited to address green issues and sustainability in a way that has not previously been embraced by the racing community,” Crispen added, highlighting the importance of ongoing discussions with local environmental groups.

Upcoming Major Events

The excitement surrounding the new lease will be matched by a series of high-profile events at the Raceway. On Sunday, 16 June, the Nationals Championship will be held in Cornwall for the first time. The event will feature a unique trophy – a scaled-down Stock Car intricately crafted by the late jeweller Jon Padget, with an estimated value of £2,500 from 30 years ago.

Beyond Racing: A Cultural Shift

The Raceway is set to transform into a performance space the day after the Nationals Championship. The Wildworks Theatre Group will be staging ‘The Kneebone Cadillac,’ a humorous play written by Carl Grose. This production celebrates Grose’s childhood memories of the Raceway and promises to be a runaway summertime hit.

Crispen emphasised the significance of this cultural shift: “Stock Car racing has a long history at United Downs Raceway and is extremely well supported. We want United Downs to continue to be a sporting landmark in Cornwall, and for its very existence to be honoured by this incredibly funny play is an absolute joy. I assure anyone who attends, they will be thoroughly entertained.”

A Bright Future for United Downs Raceway

The new 10-year lease for United Downs Raceway marks the beginning of an exciting era for both the Stock Car Racing community and the wider public. With significant investments in facilities and sustainability, along with high-profile racing events and cultural performances, the Raceway is set to remain a cherished landmark in Cornwall for years to come.