Hampshire council gives initial nod to Dimanche Tour of Hampshire 2027
Rally plans for closed-road event move closer to reality
The Dimanche Tour of Hampshire 2027, a 60-car rally expected to take place across closed public roads in Hart, has seen a significant update.
Hampshire County Council recently confirmed its lack of objection for the event planned for 11th April, enabling organisers to advance in their application process.
This confirmation allows the rally team to apply for the next stage of approval from Motorsport UK which, if granted, would require a subsequent application for a motor race order from Hampshire County Council.
Previously established plans propose roads around Crondall, Odiham, Long Sutton and Well be transformed into tracks for the rally, contingent upon Motorsport UK's permit and approval from the council to close public roads.
The rally aims to start and conclude at Lord Wandsworth College, intending to use the location as the event headquarters, complete with service and spectator facilities. Competitors will tackle an 8.9-mile course four times, leading to approximately 35.6 miles of closed-road competitive racing.
With anticipation of 60 cars participating, vehicles will take off at one-minute intervals. Road closures are likely to be in effect from 7am to 8pm on the event day.
Various local bodies have expressed support for the rally, including Hart District Council and Crondall Parish Council, though Long and Well Parish Councils remain unconvinced. Efforts have been made to address these concerns from the event organisers.
Backers of the event emphasise its potential economic benefits, attracting competitors and spectators from across the UK. The rally's fate hinges on securing the Motorsport UK permit and the council's final word following the motor race order application.