There is still a degree of uncertainty about the composition of the Premier League for the year 2000.
In the north there is no doubt about Newcastle, Glasgow or Edinburgh. Workington have been linked with a possible move up to the Elite League although this would appear to be very unlikely. Berwick are not committing themsleves to run yet but all the indications are that they will be back in the Premier League next year.
In the midlands, Stoke are currently in discussion with their landlords about agreeing a deal to enable the Potters to run next year. Sheffield are subject to all sorts of rumours about moving to the Elite League. The current promotion have flatly denied that they are to leave the Premier League although it is no secret that the Elite League tracks admire the facilities at Owlerton and would welcome such a move. One suggestion is that the former Bradford promotion team are behind these rumours and intend to take over Sheffield. There are also suggestions that Long Eaton could be set to make a Premier League comeback if the sale of the Station Road Stadium to a sympathetic bidder goes ahead.
In the west, Swindon have ruled out a move back to the Elite League as long as Saturday night is unavailable for speedway. They are currently looking to finalize a sponsorship package to enable them to run in the Premier League. They may well be joined by newcomers Somerset Rebels who are currently deciding between the Premier League and the Conference League. Exeter were never in doubt although they are also subject to rumours about moving up a League. Newport will certainly be back in the Premier League.
In the south, the Isle of Wight look secure although doubts about Reading and Arena Essex have surfaced. The uncertainty at Reading is all to do with their crumbling stadium that has been linked with redevelopment. These fears appear unfounded and much needed stadium improvements are planned if a new lease is secured from Reading District Council. The whole speedway operations at Arena Essex are up for sale following the retirement of Chick Woodroffe. This opens the door to the possibility of a buyout by a pro-Elite League consortium although this seems unlikely.
As it is the silly season, rumours are also circulating about possibilities to drop down from the Elite League without much substance. The Ipswich promotion are considering an offer of a lucrative move to Poland. This could threaten their status in the Elite League. There are also the perennial doubts over the Elite League future of Kings Lynn especially after the loss of world champion Tony Rikardsson. Hull have admitted to losing money in 1999 but hope to find extra sponsorship to stay in the Elite League.
Things may be clearer by the time of the BSPA Conference later this month.