Colwyn Bay To Host Wales Rally GB Special Stage

Colwyn Bay will host a spectacular two-mile special stage on this year’s Wales Rally GB (3-6 October), with chicanes, donuts and a hairpin corner set out along the seaside town’s multi-million pound redeveloped Promenade.

This news extends the FIA World Rally Championship event’s presence in County Conwy following confirmation that the Rally HQ and central Service Park are moving into the heart of Llandudno. It also comes ahead of this weekend’s Prom Xtra family event in Colwyn Bay at which Wales Rally GB will have a significant presence.

October’s spectacular new Colwyn Bay speed test is scheduled for prime time on early Saturday evening (5 October) to maximise its appeal and will be the headline of a packed programme of car-themed activities and entertainment.

Adding to the atmosphere further funding has been secured in principle from the Bay of Colwyn Town Council for simultaneous entertainment in both Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea town centres.

“The Saturday evening seafront spectacular will be different from anything Colwyn Bay has seen before; and a real contrast to the forests of rural Wales where most of the rally action takes place,” said Hugh Chambers, Chief Executive of Motorsport UK, organiser and promoter of Wales Rally GB. “Part of what we are doing with this year’s rally is to bring the raw excitement of the sport to places where many more fans can enjoy this excitement. Hopefully a good number of those gripped by what they experience in Colwyn Bay will then venture out to the forests to view world championship rallying in the wilds of Wales.”

The enthusiasm and support of both Colwyn BID and Conwy County Borough Council have both been instrumental in bringing the globally-followed WRC to the Bay of Colwyn.

Cheryl Williams, Colwyn BID Manager, said the rally will bring thousands of visitors to the area and showcase the very best of the Bay. “We are delighted to be in partnership with the WRC and for the Bay of Colwyn to play its part in supporting one of the highlights of the North Wales calendar,” said Williams.

“Colwyn Bay, Rhos on Sea and Old Colwyn already hosts some of the top events in the region – including Access all Eirias, the Forties Festival, Rhos Pirate Weekend and Prom Xtra – so this is another opportunity to showcase what we have to offer.

“The speed test will be an exciting addition to what’s already a very popular rally, and the promenade itself is the perfect setting. There will also be a programme of entertainment and activities, so there’s something for everyone. We encourage people to book their place as soon as possible so they don’t miss out on this incredible occasion.”