A major motorsport event could soon be revving its engines on public roads.
Shropshire councillors are considering whether to allow road closures for the Hills Ford Rally to take place in September.
The 2026 Hills Ford Stages Rally is set to take place over the weekend of September 19 and 20. The event will bring the rally to the Shrewsbury area, with stages set in the grounds of historic private estates and across the Shropshire Hills.
Heather Kidd , council leader, said the rally offers "significant income" but also acknowledged concerns about noise, disruption, and safety.
“There are many pros and cons with this event,” Cllr Kidd said.
“On the one hand, it will bring significant income into the county through the rally itself and increased visitor numbers.
"On the other, we have received numerous objections from communities along the proposed route, with concerns about noise, disruption and safety".
A council report concluded that the economic benefits would likely outweigh any negative impacts.
Councillors are expected to vote individually at a cabinet meeting on June 10, with no party-line whip.
Cllr Kidd added: "I know councillors, including myself, have spoken widely with businesses, residents and parish councils on both sides of the debate, and their views will be taken into account.”
Organisers of the Hills Ford Stages have thanked supporters after what they described as an “overwhelming” backing for the event.
In a statement, the team behind the 2026 rally said they had seen more than 1,000 supportive comments across social media following recent coverage, with “very little in the way of negative comments”.
They said this demonstrated “the overwhelming level of support for the event by the community”.
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Community groups, charities and parish councils in areas hosting the 2026 Hills Ford Stages Rally are being encouraged to come forward to explore opportunities for funding, support and fundraising.
With the initial consultation period now complete, organisers say engagement with local communities remains a key part of the event’s commitment to the region.
One of the main ways the rally supports local areas is through spectator fundraising. Designated viewing areas, set up in line with Motorsport UK requirements, allow local groups to run car parks, with all parking income going directly back into the community to support local projects and initiatives.
Organisers are now inviting parish councils, sports clubs, charities and community organisations to get in touch to discuss how they could benefit from being involved in the 2026 event.
Event media officer Steve said: “Now that the consultation period is finished, we’re able to highlight these opportunities and start those conversations with local communities.
“The rally brings real benefits to the region, and we want to make sure those are shared as widely as possible.”
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Clerk of the course Dan added: “As a not-for-profit event, it’s important to us that we give something back to the communities that support us.
“We would encourage any parish or community group with a project or initiative to get in touch and see what might be possible.”
Further details will be shared through parish councils and the rally’s official channels. For more information, contact the communities and business liaison team at info@hillsfordstages.co.uk
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