An MHK has questioned whether the current TT schedule is fit for purpose after another year of weather disruptions.
Addressing Tynwald, Tim Glover highlighted that only one race ran to its full length this year, and the Senior TT was lost entirely.
He noted it was the third year of the new format, with the last two years plagued by poor conditions, leaving little flexibility for delays.
“”It’s the third year of this new racing schedule,” Mr Glover said. “The first year was blessed with good weather and no problems, but then the last two years, the weather has not been favourable.
“The schedule does not have much wriggle room in it now, as it currently is, under this schedule, the Senior TT effectively has fixed dates to be held on, with only a reserve afternoon option.”
Mr Johnston said: “The current schedule has been developed through consultation with the race organiser, ACU, competitors, teams, marshals and medics.
“It is important that there is stability in the schedule so that all parties know what is planned well in advance.
“If there was to be any changes, that would be a really cross agency discussion with all stakeholders to assess whether that was necessary.
“At this stage, I don’t believe we plan to change schedule as such, but it must always be looked at.”
Peaks
Rob Callister pointed out that the schedule was redesigned three years ago to maximise visitor numbers, creating “three peaks” of activity.
However, he acknowledged the limitations of organisers in the face of adverse weather, stating: “Neither the promoter or the organiser can be held accountable for long periods of poor weather, which is what we experienced this year and we experienced last year. It is just how the dice rolls.”
Chris Thomas raised concerns about the density of races, suggesting fewer events might free up time and improve the spectator experience.
He also emphasised the need to assess the economic impact beyond the grandstand, saying: “This debrief should include how many people were involved, spending money around the town, as well as directly on the TT and the grandstand, because I do think that’s where we might lose the Isle of Man’s population and support for the races if we don’t make sure we see this as a balanced TT for everybody in the island.”
Feedback
Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston confirmed feedback would be gathered from stakeholders, including local authorities, but stressed the importance of data-driven decisions. Responding to concerns about visitor numbers, he said: “I don’t want to comment on numbers this day.
“I think it’s important that we get the data, we get the facts on that. But I think absolutely right, and as I said mentioned in the earlier answer through the business agency, there will be that reach out across the island, and we have that.
“We have those ongoing relationships with the hotel sector and the retail sectors across the island. So we will, we will definitely wanted to get that, get that feedback and understanding.”
Merchandise
Julie Edge questioned the merchandise approval process, particularly after orange T-shirts drew complaints for resembling marshals’ high-visibility gear.
She asked: “Who in the department signs off any new designs and ensures that they’re not the colour of a Marshall’s vest going forward?
“And there was many comments, I don’t know if the minister did was aware of them during TT, many comments that we seem to be trying to merchandise and look like we’re Formula One, rather than our traditional, unique TT, who is responsible for ensuring that that merchandise is to the standard we’d require to promote our TT?”
Mr Johnston deferred detailed answers but noted marshals could raise concerns through official feedback channels.
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