NEW SAFETY EQUIPMENT PURCHASED AHEAD OF 2017 VAUXHALL INTERNATIONAL NORTH WEST 200

Races

In October 2016 Northern Ireland Communities Minister, Paul Givan announced the Vauxhall International North West 200 would receive £124,000 from the Northern Ireland Assembly through Sport NI to fund safety improvements at the event.

On the eve of the 2017 races the former Minister and Ian Paisley, North Antrim MP, have visited the circuit to see how the money has been spent.

Over 200 new Recticel bales have been purchased at a cost of approximately £500 each. In addition, 135 kerb protectors have been added to the event’s stock and some 1.25 miles of new fencing has been erected. Twelve sets of amber safety lights, used to give the riders an early warning of any incidents during practice or racing, have been deployed around the 8.9 mile Triangle circuit.

“The extra funding we have received has allowed us to make significant safety improvements for both riders and spectators.” Event Director, Mervyn Whyte said.

“As race organisers our top priority is to try to make the racing as safe as possible. The new equipment we have purchased is another huge step in that process and we are very grateful for the support we have received.”
“We have seen the new equipment today and it is another step forward for the event in terms of safety.” former Communities Minister, Paul Givan said after the visit.
“We want to try to make this great event safer for everyone involved and even more spectacular than it already is.”
“Safety is critical in road racing and these measures enhance the safety precautions that are already made by Mervyn Whyte and his team at the North West 200.” Ian Paisley said.
“The new bales and kerb protectors will give riders the best possible protection and the lights will provide them with early warning in a sport where the margins are so fine.”