Work is under way on a semi-permanent building to provide race control and time-keeping facilities on the Billown circuit.

The framework for the two-storey structure is taking shape at the start/finish of the Billown course on the Castletown bypass.

Southern 100 Motorcycle Racing Limited’s proposal (17/00834/B) replaces two dark green Portacabin-type structures, one on top of the other, which have been in place during race periods since 2006.

Organisers say it is unacceptable to remove them all the time, as there are electricity points and other services which would be left uncovered and insecure on the site without the structure.

The building will accommodate the electronic timing system as well as a manual support system which involves officials having to be able to see as far up the road as possible.

In the planning report it states: ’While the building has a functional and unimaginative appearance, the applicant is in a difficult position in having no assurance that the building will continue to be required on a permanent basis and is therefore perhaps not in a position to spend more money on something more interesting.

’It is also the case that it is much less likely to have an interesting and imaginative building which will be required to be removed if its justification ceases to prevail.’

The unit may be used only for administration of the racing on the Billown Circuit and if such use ceases, the unit must be removed within one year of their last use or six months of the confirmation of the cessation of need.