The Department of Tourism and Leisure have announced exciting new plans to ensure the future viability of the TT races.

Following an exhaustive tender process the Department are delighted to announce that next years event will be held on a 15 mile closed road circuit close to Newtown, Mid Wales. Minister for Tourism Mr Martin Quayle commented "The location rights contract is a pivotal part of our plans in developing the commercial value and building the long term future of the TT races. We believe that having Wales on board will help us to achieve our objectives. Their pitch also stood out as one that will revolutionise the characteristics of the course and will appeal to race and non-race fans.

With the oil price currently sitting at 95 dollars a barrel, and likely to rise to 300 dollars a barrel in the next 3 years, something had to be done to ensure the affordability of travel for the riders, teams, spectators, organisers, pr companies, hospitality providers, sponsorship and television companies. The Welsh Development Agency were delighted to be able to put together a package to secure the location rights for the event. Rhodri Morgan AM, First Minister of the National Assembly for Wales commented "The TT Races remains one of the world’s most iconic sporting events and we are delighted to be joining the team. We will certainly be looking to get under the skin of the event and its personalities to make this extraordinary event a must-visit for spectators across the globe – and not just for bike fans. We believe we can bring everything we’ve learned from our work in the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff and the Wales Rally GB to the TT – it’s a genuinely exciting opportunity.”

Anticipating some concern from local fans and marshals the Department are delighted to have secured a reduced price travel package for Isle of Man residents wishing to visit the event. There will be a total of 120 places on selected overnight sailings available for locals wishing to attend the event. Passengers will also receive a "Pie and Pint voucher". It is understood that members and Officials of the Department of Tourism and Leisure will travel in the Mannanan lounge.