London’s ULEZ expansion sees the long-running Bromley Pageant of Motoring cancelled for 2024, with organisers exploring alternative locations for the future
After much speculation, it’s finally been confirmed that the Bromley Pageant of Motoring will not be going ahead in 2024 due to the restrictions imposed by the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ), which was expanded last August. The enlarged ULEZ brings the Norman Park venue in Bromley within the zone, thereby casting doubt over the event’s viability.
While many classics would have been exempt from the ULEZ charge due to their age (over 40 years) the reality is some modern classics would have been susceptible to the £12.50 daily charge, as would many vehicles belonging to the clubs, exhibitors and public that make up the event.
Extensive conversations were had to explore the prospect of the Pageant of Motoring going ahead at its natural home of Norman Park, or indeed of staging it at a different venue. Neither option was deemed realistic in 2024, in such a way that would have delivered a comparable experience to previous events. Bromley Pageant of Motoring was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but returned triumphantly in 2022. Following a similarly successful show in 2023, it was hoped that the event could then continue despite the potential disruption caused by ULEZ.
Work has already begun into looking at alternative venues for the event so it can be relaunched in 2025. The organisers of the Bromley Pageant of Motoring, Pippa and Jason Griffiths from A-ME (who run it on behalf of Kelsey Media), said in a statement: “Following the introduction of the ULEZ zone across Greater London, we have taken considerable time to evaluate all options for the future of the Bromley Pageant of Motoring, including whether it would be viable to still hold the Pageant at Norman Park, Bromley.
It became clear that Norman Park is no longer an option and any move to a new venue and date needs to ensure that this firm favourite of the classic car calendar has a bright future. We have made the very difficult decision to not hold the event in 2024 but are working on plans to bring back the Bromley Pageant of Motoring in 2025.
We appreciate the support we have received from car owners, clubs, trade and visitors over the time we have had the honour of looking after the Pageant and we are as disappointed as you that it will not take place this year. We do look forward to what the future will hold for this wonderful event, and we hope to bring you further details later in the year.”
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