COW

[boxerscott]

Who is the prime mover behind this race track? It appears that the politicians have now dis-associated themselves from this Grandiose Folly.

I think Port Talbot has focussed a few minds on what is really important.

How on earth can crackpot schemes like this ever get off the ground?

[Al]

IF it had happened on schedule it could have had an impact on the south Wales economy as both Aston Martin and TVR are setting up production facilities in the area, Aston are moving onto the old training site that was formerly RAF St Athan and TVR somewhere nearby, whereas they may have considered premises on the site around the circuit.
As you say current problems are a bit more important than a new race circuit.

Al.

[boxerscott]

Wales deserves the Aston Martin plant. Historically they have a good labour work ethic. It should create a lot of opportunities and I wish that project all the success.

Grandiose race tracks generally struggle to balance the books... but Bernie does well out of the deal.

[andy griff]

I'm with the bigger picture view.
Look at the area around Silverstone, a hub for all sorts of F1 spin off businesses with consequent effect on college courses in the area, apprenticeships and next generation of workforce.

Yes, Port Talbot is important but we will always struggle to keep big manufacturing business in the UK due to overheads ( i.e. standard off living and wages). Something like COW would target next generation high tech businesses - much more forward thinking.

Hard to argue on a short term view and the project would be in deficit for a decade but i think long term it would be a winner.

We'll probably never know !

[roadburner]

Biggest problem was that Aviva (who are behind this) wanted the government to underwrite any losses by 100% the governmnent offered 80% and it was rejected.
How can an insurance company of all things want someone else to take on any potential losses, but not gain any profit?