Silverstone begins its restructuring

Silverstone has just unveiled the first images of its new complex (track and paddock). This announcement comes as the circuit will have to undergo redevelopment in the coming years.

The Northamptonshire track has big ambitions for a facilities upgrade, which it hopes will be sufficient to secure the future of the British Grand Prix.

Part of the plans includes moving the paddocks, currently located between the Woodcote and Copse corners, to those of Club and Abbey. This change also involves a reconfiguration of the circuit as a whole.

The redevelopment plan, known as the ‘Silverstone Development Brief’, has been sent back to the city council and will need to be submitted for its approval.

Damon Hill, president of the British Drivers’ Club, stated that the circuit needs this approval for its redevelopment in order to maintain the British Grand Prix.

« Silverstone is a great circuit with a very large history! These few images are a first glimpse of the future of Silverstone. This is what we eagerly wish to do in order to present a track where all motorsports can compete. »

« This new facility, and the redevelopment in general, will contribute to the economic health of Northamptonshire and create more jobs for local communities. The British Grand Prix alone generates over 30 million pounds per year for the region, and it is vital that we do everything to maintain this level of revenue. »

« Moreover, today it goes without saying that, to retain the British Grand Prix, we need a large-scale venue.

The redevelopment of the track and paddocks is only the first part of the restructuring program that Silverstone desires. This will culminate in a new testing center, business park, leisure complex, hotels, and new houses.

Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone, stated: « Our intention is to transform Silverstone so that it becomes an important center for education, business, leisure, and technology. »

This will allow Silverstone to become a showcase of British motorsport and compete with other major sports venues like Wembley, Wimbledon, or Twickenham.