The Cycle Racing on Highways (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2015

EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

The Cycle Racing on Highways Regulations 1960 (“the 1960 Regulations”) provide for the authorisation of bicycle racing and trials of speed on public highways in England and Wales under section 31 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 (“the 1988 Act”).

The functions of the Secretary of State under section 31 of the 1988 Act were transferred to the National Assembly for Wales by the National Assembly for Wales (Transfer of Functions) Order 1999. These functions were subsequently transferred to the Welsh Ministers by virtue of section 162 of, and paragraph 30 of Schedule 11 to, the Government of Wales Act 2006.

These Regulations amend Regulations 5 and 8 of the 1960 Regulations in relation to Wales by removing the fixed limit imposed on the number of competitors that may participate in a bicycle race, and replacing it with a requirement for a risk assessment to be undertaken by the promoter of a race. The risk assessment must assess the risks to the health and safety of competitors, race officials, spectators and other road users arising out of the holding of the race. The risk assessment must be submitted to the appropriate officer of police not less than 28 days before the date of the commencement of the race.

These Regulations also make minor changes to the standard conditions imposed on bicycle races.

A new requirement is also imposed on the appropriate officer of police to provide written reasons to the British Cycling Federation and the promoter of the race where conditions are imposed on a bicycle race.

A Regulatory Impact Assessment has been prepared in relation to these Regulations. A copy can be obtained from the Department for Economy, Science and Transport, Welsh Government Offices, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NQ.