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Plans to resurface the Tandragee 100 route have been welcomed by the North Armagh Motorcycle and Car Club and local MLA Cathal Boylan. The road race hasn't taken place in recent years due to insurance issues but the organisers plan to return in 2025.
The Minister for Infrastructure, John O’Dowd has said that he plans to resurface a stretch of the route.
Speaking about the announcement Anne Forsythe, Clerk of the Course said "We are extremely grateful to all those who have continued to work hard behind the scenes since our last event in 2022, to the Minister and all those within DfI who have made this possible.
"This is just the beginning of the hard work for us; we will now focus our full attention on securing the necessary financial resources and putting everything in place to enable us to apply for a Road Closing Order and undertake all the hundreds of activities that are needed to get the event up and running.
"As a Club we are delighted, and we are, as we have always been, committed to doing everything we can to bring this awe-inspiring event back in 2025. We also wish to take this opportunity to thank all our competitors, sponsors, landowners, volunteers and spectators for their continued support."
Minister O’Dowd said: “Over many years my Department has been working with race organisers to facilitate the safe conditions for the Tandragee 100 to take place. This has involved carrying out road surface and drainage repairs in advance of the event and that essential work will continue with the resurfacing of a small stretch of the road in preparation for next year's event.
“Our rural road network is at the heart of local communities and contributes to their connectivity and economy. The Tandragee 100 Road Race is part of a busy NI motorsport calendar and attracts many thousands of motorsport enthusiasts. It also generates opportunities for local businesses and tourism. I am committed to supporting and investing in our rural road network to enable local communities deliver local benefits.”
Mr Boylan, Sinn Féin's infrastructure spokesperson added “I welcome Minister for Infrastructure John O’Dowd’s plan to proceed with resurfacing work later this year on a stretch of the A51 to assist with plans for the Tandragee 100 Road Race next year.
“I have been pressing the department for some time to have these works carried out and I am therefore glad to hear the minister’s announcement.
“This road race attracts huge numbers to the Tandragee area and is a boost for local businesses and tourism. This is a positive step towards delivering an event which the entire local community can enjoy.”
