Last year there was great uncertainty about the composition of the Premier League well into the new year. There was concern about the financial status of Newcastle. Berwick were embroiled in an on-off takeover saga and only decided to run at the last minute. Glasgow were dependent on receiving planning permission and constructing a new track at Asfield after it was suggested that they would be kicked out of Shawfield. Even Edinburgh were in doubt until the renewal of planning permission at Armadale was agreed by West Lothian Council.
On top of this was the general uncertainty about which tracks would move up to and drop down from the Elite League. Initially Belle Vue and then Kings Lynn were supposed to move down to the Premier League with Peterborough moving up. Eventually it was Swindon who moved down.
This year, by contrast, things appear more stable. Newcastle have already declared they will run as have newcomers Workington and Berwick. Stoke appears to be in sounder financial shape than for many years. Glasgow and Edinburgh are both secure with planning permission agreed for one more and two more years respectively.
The only uncertainty surrounding the Premier League is possible movements between the various Leagues. A new track at Highbridge in Someset which was originally assumed to be hosting Conderence League speedway may go for the Premier League. St. Austell have rejected a possible move to the Premier League as have Mildenhall.
With a number of Elite League tracks looking doubtful especially Ipswich and Kings Lynn, it is expected that certain Premier League tracks will be targeted with a view to moving up a division. Premier League Champions Sheffield have been suggested for some time although it appears that the promotion are determined to stay and defend their title. Workington also come into this category. Runours surrounding Exeter have also been circulating. Arena Essex, who are up for sale, may well be a candidate for the Elite League. Arena Essex were a First Division side but their promotion moved to the ill-fated London Stadium at Hackney in 1996. Arena Essex carried in the Conference League under a new promotion in 1996 and moved into the Premier League in 1997 while the London Lions folded after one year.
It is probably safe to assume that the Premier League will be around the same size as this year with circa thirteen tracks.
In the meantime a number of riders have already been signed for the 2000 season. Workington were first off the mark with Carl Stonehewer and Peter Karlsson being secured. Seemond Stephens has moved to Exeter while Glasgow have Emiliano Sanchez contracted.