Classic TT could cost Manx Care and DoI combined extra £150,000

Ministers outline estimated additional outlays for 2025

The reintroduction of the Classic TT next year could cost Manx Care and the Department of Infrastructure a combined extra £150,000.

The figures have been revealed following questions to the health and infrastructure departments on the estimated additional finances involved in the event returning in 2025.

Health minister Claire Christian estimates it'll require £130,000 in extra funds for Manx Care whilst infrastructure minister Dr Michelle Haywood says the estimated cost to the DoI stands at £20,000.

Both were subject to questions from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper who'd asked how much will the Classic TT incur to those departments and how these costs will be funded.

In written response, Ms Christian states the extra £130,000 in costs for Manx Care will be 'primarily made up from extra cover to support front-line services' including the ambulance service, emergency department and radiology.

There may also be additional requirements for the helicopter which supports the ambulance service's efforts to access parts of the Island which are difficult to reach by road, including when roads around the TT course are closed for racing.

Ms Christian adds: "No specific funding has been allocated to Manx Care, or its predecessor organisation, to support motorsport events. 

These events were in place before the establishment of Manx Care and included in existing revenue budgets."

Elsewhere, Dr Haywood says the estimated £20,000 extra costs to the DoI will be for equipment and staff, adding this figure 'could potentially double' if contingency sessions are used during next August's meeting.

She explains the department traditionally has funded road racing works through the highways maintenance budget.

Next year is seeing the Classic TT come back for the first time since 2019 where it will run alongside the Manx Grand Prix in an expanded 12-day programme from 17-29 August.

You can read Ms Christian's and Dr Haywood's responses to Mr Hooper's queries HERE and HERE.