Redevelopment plans get another seal of approval.
Silverstone's plan to turn itself into the circuit desired by Bernie Ecclestone in order to remain on the Formula One calendar has taken another small step forward after another local council approved the development brief issued last year.
South Northamptonshire Council's cabinet committee voted to adopt the 'Joint Silverstone Circuit Development Brief' on Monday [4th February], aligning itself with the Aylesbury Vale District Council, which had earlier endorsed the revamp. The brief sets out plans for the redevelopment of both the circuit and the surrounding land as Silverstone attempts to raise the funds necessary to keep itself at the forefront of grand prix racing and provide a sustainable home for the British Grand Prix.
"With the development brief in place, we can now complete the preparation of a planning application to bring the circuit facilities into the 21st century and transform
Silverstone into a world leading centre for business, leisure and technology," Silverstone Circuits MD Richard Phillips said, "This will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of the motorsport industry and maintain its position as a major regional and national employer."
A range of new facilities are proposed for the venue, including a new pit and paddock complex for the circuit, along with a manufacturer test centre, business park, extreme sport and leisure complex, two hotels, a university campus, a 'welcome centre' and new public housing, to be built on the edge of land owned by the British Racing Drivers' Club. The plans detail development of the area over the next ten years.
"The adoption of the development brief means that, for the first time in its long and illustrious history, Silverstone is now being considered as a whole, with an eye towards what it can deliver to the UK as well as meeting the needs of the grand prix," commented the circuit's development director, Spencer Canning, "This is an important step towards creating a framework for the delivery of a world class venue for motorsport, education and high technology development.
"The decision is also testament to the enthusiasm and dedication of all the agencies and organisations who have worked on this important step, including the local
authorities, the South East of England Development Agency, the East Midlands Development Agency, Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire County Councils and
the government."
A planning application for the new pit and paddock facility is currently being finalised, with a submission expected to be made later this spring. The circuit facilities are among the items constantly criticised by Ecclestone, and a revamp is seen as an essential to keeping the grand prix.
"Our members are excited about the future of Silverstone and welcome this essential step towards delivering the much needed improvement of facilities on the site," BRDC chairman Robert Brooks concluded, "The joint decision of the local authorities means we can move forward quickly to protect Silverstone's status as a global leader and the home of motor racing."
