Silverstone upgrade plans backed

Plans to secure Silverstone’s future as a Formula One circuit have received the backing of a second local authority.

The Northamptonshire circuit’s facilities are due to be upgraded as part of plans to keep the British Grand Prix on the F1 race calendar.

F1 rights holder Bernie Ecclestone had warned that Silverstone’s facilities were not up to the standard required and this could jeopardise the future of the British GP.

However, the ’Joint Silverstone Circuit Development Brief’ has now been adopted by the South Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet committee, following on from Aylesbury Vale District Council’s endorsement of the same brief.

The development brief, which has been prepared by independent consultants on behalf of South Northamptonshire Council and Aylesbury Vale, sets out plans for sustainable development of the circuit.

A range of facilities are proposed, including a new pit and paddock complex for the circuit along with a manufacturer test centre, business park, two hotels, a university campus, and some new homes near the circuit.

Spencer Canning, Development Director at Silverstone, said: “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.”

A planning application for the new pit and paddock facility is now being finalised with a submission expected to be made in the spring.