NEWS that the Circuit of Wales project could change hands from the Welsh Governments to its Scottish counterpart has prompted a mixed reaction across social media.

Yesterday, the Argus revealed that those behind £425 million scheme have been in contact with the Scottish Government about setting up a similar track in Scotland.

Government officials had been inquiring about the progress of the project in Ebbw Vale, which has been in limbo since 2011 following a string of delays.

Writing on the Argus website, user Dai Corner wrote: “I still can’t understand why anyone would spend £425m building a racing circuit when even Silverstone, with its world famous brand, nearer larger centres of population and without the bad weather was for sale for just £33m.”

Meanwhile, beach1 said: “Let them transfer it to Scotland. It’s a white elephant and a con in my personal view. I doubt the Scottish will fund it as much as the Welsh Assembly Government have to date.”

User rlewis added: “Every time I see the headline referring to Circuit of Wales, I feel a groan inside. Don’t know about anyone else, but I am sick to death of hearing ‘will it come?’’won’t it come?’”

A report from Cardiff Metropolitan University has reinforced the “need” for the project to be built in Blaenau Gwent as it has the “potential to make a significant positive contribution to both the local economy and to the Welsh hospitality and tourism product”.

The report, released by Professor Neil Morgan yesterday, reads: “If any part of Wales was to be targeted for a transformational investment project then the area surrounding the northern Valleys would probably be top of the list.

“Something is needed to create a step change in economic development in the Valleys and the time has passed for ‘tinkering around the edges’, which is a good description of recent attempts to regenerate this area.

“Something transformational is required to kick start the growth process and reduce the prosperity gap with the rest of the UK.

“Something is needed now to reverse the decline in employment opportunities and introduce new investment.”