Plans to secure the future of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone have taken a significant step forward with the adoption of the Joint Silverstone Circuit Development Brief by South Northamptonshire Council's Cabinet Committee on Monday 4th February. This follows Aylesbury Vale District Council's earlier endorsement of the Development Brief.

Prepared by independent consultants on behalf of South Northamptonshire Council and Aylesbury Vale, the Development Brief sets out the "Vision for the Circuit" and the principles of sustainable development which will maximise the social and economic benefits for the local and regional area. It also sets out the land use and infrastructure requirements against which any future planning application has to be assessed.

A range of facilities are proposed, 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 some new homes near the circuit. This will enable new development around the circuit over the next 10 years and ensure Silverstone retains its position at the forefront of the motorsport industry.

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.

"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."

Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited said: "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. This will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of the motorsport industry and maintain its position as a major regional and national employer."

Robert Brooks, Chairman of the BRDC said: "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. 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."

A planning application for the new Pit and Paddock facility is now being finalised with a submission expected to be made in spring 2008.