Formula E looks set to race its finale in Battersea Park next year after Wandsworth Council endorsed proposals.
Councillors at the community services scrutiny committee in Wednesday, December 3, approved the race, subject to planning permission and approval from the governing body the FIA.
If agreed, Formula E will stage two races, featuring 20 drivers, in the park over a weekend in June 2015.
If the races go on to be staged over the next five years the park could receive £1m investment from Formula E.
Councillors agreed to proposals following Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) approval.
The public have been divided over the plans and concerns have been raised by a charity.
A letter by Frances Radcliffe OBE, the chairman of the Friends of Battersea Park, strongly objected to the Formula E proposal for June, 2015, and for four further years under a five-year contract.
The council’s environment spokesman, Councillor Jonathan Cook, said: "What is of paramount importance to ourselves, the HLF and other partner organisations is that nothing is done that will cause harm or damage to the park and its important historical features.
"If the races do obtain planning permission and do get the go-ahead then we will explore the options for keeping part of the park open for members of the public who aren’t racing fans and aren’t interested in Formula E."
A test drive was carried out in the park at 5am, on August 14, by current championship leader Lucas di Grassi.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel