Silverstone poised for £45m overhaul

Sir Jackie Stewart today unveiled plans for a £45 million redesign of the Silverstone motor racing circuit.

But he said without a similar amount of money from the Government, Britain would lose its Grand Prix.

Stewart, president of the British Racing Drivers' Club, said plans for the Northamptonshire circuit include a new pit and paddock facility, better grandstands and improvements to ease the chronic traffic problems.

Also planned is a spectacular curve to improve overtaking opportunities at the circuit

The £45m will come from the BRDC, promoters Octagon Motorsports, who have the rights to the British Grand Prix, and the Bernie Ecclestone Formula One Management company.

But they want Government money to turn Silverstone into a Disney-style attraction with an interactive visitors centre and a drivers' academy.