SPECTACULAR professional motor racing could be held on the streets of Tendring after a change in the law.

The Motor Sports Association yesterday won its seven-year campaign to bring street events like the Isle of Man TT race to mainland Britain, describing it as a "seismic shift".

The move is being hailed as "one of the biggest developments in the history of UK motorsport".

And Tendring Council last night revealed it is already involved in talks about bringing road racing to the district.

Tourism boss Tanya Ferguson said: "There is no doubt at all that hosting such an exciting event would be a massive draw and bring people into our area to boost the economy.

"Our talks are at a very early stage but we are very interested in the prospect and hope that the idea can be developed with Tendring.”

The law change would give councils the power to shut roads for motorsports events.

Studies show races could generate millions of pounds for local economies.

Former F1 world champion Nigel Mansell said: “I have seen first-hand the very significant impact of motor sport on the economy of the Isle of Man and Jersey, so this is a great move forward for the sport and will bring visitors and pride to parts of the country that wish to stage such events."

The popular FIA Formula E Championship, which stages electric car races in capital cities across the world, has also welcomed the news.