Is Formula E set to go, or is a black flag on the horizon for the Bournemouth bound event?
Formula E, the all-electric sister series of F1, could be coming to Bournemouth, thanks to some major investment from local businessmen.
Local hero and driver Sam Bird has expressed his desire for a race, but some are concerned about the environmental impact of Formula E. BUzz news speaks to the local residents, to see if they are concerned about the sustainability of the event.
Despite a London E-Prix existing on the current calendar, Bournemouth is hoping to take over the reins from 2023 onwards, providing jobs and boosting the local economy.
The proposal is for a clockwise street circuit on the seafront that would ideally host a double-header round of the series for an initial three-year bid running from 2023 to 2026.
The ambitious event has been proposed by Wessex Entrepreneurs , a business networking group in Bournemouth includes an initial circuit layout for approximately 3.4 miles, taking in a series of roundabouts and a section of the A338 as it runs past Bournemouth Pier and the Royal Bath hotel.
The running of the event has split the local community, with many expressing their concern to BUzz about the pollution levels increasing, while one gentleman stated: “I’d love it, I’ve been here all my life so it would excellent.”
BUzz news spoke to motorsport journalist, Jay Gardner, who said: “Formula E is the future of motorsport due to how clean the engines are due to the electrics being electric. The city track can come and go, meaning it leaves much less of a footprint than a permanent race circuit.”
With the overwhelming majority supporting the event with confidence, and assurances from the organisers that the event will be carbon neutral, we are set to go for 2023.
Below is the suggested start line for the race at the Royal Bath Hotel.
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