The British Racing Drivers' Club has today (Thursday) issued the following statement:

Members of Aylesbury Vale District Council's (AVDC) Strategic Development Control Committee have approved the planning application for the new Pit and Paddock facilities at Silverstone.

The facility is a key part of the BRDC's overall vision for Silverstone and the vital first stage in reconfirming its position at the pinnacle of the motorsport industry and as the home of motor racing. Under current proposals the Pit and Paddock complex would be moved from its current location between Woodcote and Copse to a new location between Club and Abbey. Included in the complex are new garages, a race control building, media centre, hospitality and VIP spectator zones and a primary paddock. The proposals also involve creating a new pit straight, with reorganised entry and exit points, a reconfiguration of Club Corner and a new Abbey section.

The Pit and Paddock complex is the first proposal in a 10-year programme that will see a new manufacturer test centre, business park, extreme sport and leisure complex, two hotels, a new university campus and a ‘Welcome Centre'. Taken together, the redevelopment will deliver a world-class venue for motorsport, education and high technology development that will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of the motorsport industry and maintains its position as a major regional and national employer.

Richard Phillips, Managing Director at Silverstone Circuits, said: "We are absolutely delighted that AVDC's planning committee have unanimously supported and voted in favour of this proposed milestone development. This is a turning point for Silverstone and a bold commitment towards the BRDC's support for motorsport in the UK and for retaining the British Grand Prix. The current programme provides for work to start on site later this year."

Councillor Michael Edmonds, Deputy Leader of AVDC and Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: "This is an exciting project that will help Silverstone retain the British Grand Prix and strengthen its international role as a world-class motorsport facility. We are very proud to have Silverstone in our district and want to do all we can to promote both the circuit and the wider attractions of Aylesbury Vale as a great place to visit and do business in. Our aim is to help ensure Aylesbury Vale remains the home of Formula One in Great Britain."