A short update to bring you a chat with one of the people leading the quest to save Coventry's Brandon Stadium, Jeff Davies.

An Appeal over a planning application to redevelop Coventry’s Brandon Stadium has been dismissed by the Inspector.

Brandon is one of British Speedway’s most significant venues, having hosted top national and international events as well as being home to the Bees at the top level of the sport for sixty years.

It was closed in the winter of 2016/17 as developers pursued plans for housing and, subsequently, a 3G football pitch, which was rejected last winter by the local Planning Committee.

That decision has now been upheld following a public inquiry, in which representatives for Rugby Borough Council and the Save Coventry Speedway & Stox Campaign Group produced evidence and key witnesses in support of the stadium.

The Appeal was dismissed on the grounds that the stadium with its established use is not surplus to requirements and the ‘benefits’ of the alternative provision do not outweigh the loss of the stadium, therefore putting the proposals in conflict with various sections of national and local legislation.

Jeff was speaking at the GB Young Lions Celebration of Speedway event, and we also catch up with GB youth boss Neil Vatcher. The draw for the U21 final qualifier was completed as well as an unveiling for the 2024 Youth Championship programme, and we look ahead to some of the changes coming into play in British Speedway in 2024 too with Neil who also heads up British referees.

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