Planet-F1

Donington submits redevelopment plans

Saturday 6th September 2008

Simon Gillett has promised to turn Donington Park into a circuit that will be "the pride of World Championship motorsport".

Gillett, CEO of Donington Ventures Ltd, a company who two months ago acquired the rights to host the British Grand Prix from 2010, has submitted plans to North West Leicestershire District Council for the first phase of redevelopment.

Donington Park is due to undergo a £100million facelift in order to turn the east midlands track into a state-of-the art Formula One venue.

"The submission of these plans heralds the start of a massive redevelopment project and a new era for Donington Park," said Gillett.

"It's an incredibly exciting time for everybody involved.

"We are delighted with the plans, and when the work is completed we will have a facility that will be the pride of World Championship motorsport."

Gillett maintains the departure of partner and chief operating officer Lee Gill will have no bearing on the future of the race.

"We wish to thank Mr Gill for his work at the circuit over the past 18 months in which we secured the prestigious British Grand Prix," added Gillett.

"Mr Gill is pursuing other interests and we wish him every success.

"The move is part of the planned restructuring of the company as it turns its attention fully towards the future, working towards the development of the circuit and the running of the 2010 British Grand Prix."

North West Leicestershire District Council are expected to announce their decision on the plans in early November.