Silverstone plans take step forward

The Development Brief sets out the "Vision for the Circuit" and the land use and infrastructure requirements against which any future planning application has to be assessed.

Silverstone's redevelopment includes two new hotels, a conference and exhibition centre, a new advanced technology park and residential housing on land around the circuit.

A new pit and paddock complex for the circuit is also being proposed.

A planning application for the new pit and paddock facility is now being finalised and the submission is expected to be made in spring 2008.

"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," said Spencer Canning, Development Director at Silverstone.

"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."