LAST RACE - 11th May

Silverstone reveals designs for future circuit

Tuesday 4th March 2008

The British Racing Drivers' Club has revealed its plans to redevelop the pit and paddock complex at Silverstone.

With F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone threatening to axe the British Grand Prix unless facilities are improved, the plans are seen as vital to the circuit's future.

Under the proposals the complex would be moved from its current location between Woodcote and Copse to a new location between Club and Abbey.

Included in the complex are new garages, a race control building, media centre, hospitality and VIP spectator zones and a primary paddock.

The proposals also involve creating a new pit straight, with reorganised entry and exit points, a reconfiguration of Club Corner and a new Abbey section.

The development will act as a catalyst for further investment across the site. A 10-year plan is due to see a new manufacturer test centre, business park, extreme sport and leisure complex, two hotels, a new university campus, a 'Welcome Centre' and some new homes near the circuit.

Damon Hill, president of the BRDC said: "Silverstone is a great track with a great history. These images are the vision of the future for Silverstone, and one we fervently hope will be realised, in order to provide a venue where all forms of motor sport can be celebrated in style, for the benefit of the competitor and spectator alike.

"This new facility, and the redevelopment at large, will help attract more business to Northamptonshire and create more jobs for local communities.

"The British Grand Prix alone contributes over £30 million a year to the local area and it is vital that we do everything we can to maintain this income as well as the UK's world-class expertise in high-tech engineering and R&D.

"Also, it should go without saying by now, that in order to retain the British Grand Prix we need a venue of this kind of stature, and the Grand Prix is a key element in the whole project."

The plans due to be discussed at a South Northamptonshire Council meeting later this month with a full planning application due to be submitted soon.

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