Silverstone's changes cleared

The Northamptonshire track won back the staging rights to the race in December after a proposed switch to Donington Park fell through, by which time a 5m facelift was already well under way.

The new 'Arena' circuit was originally designed to comply with MotoGP regulations, with the motorcycling series making the switch to Silverstone later this year, but yesterday's seal of approval from Ecclestone's Formula 1 Management company means F1 cars will also use the new layout.

Officials hope the new section – which will increase the circuit length by 760m and add around four seconds to the current lap time– will create three new overtaking opportunities.

Richard Phillips, managing director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, said: "The new sections of circuit were initially brought in to comply with MotoGP safety regulations, but the 'Arena Complex' was always designed with both two- and four-wheeled racing in mind.

"We have been very careful, working closely with drivers and riders, to make sure we are improving and enhancing what Silverstone already has to offer."

The main change the new Arena circuit will offer begins at Abbey corner, where instead of heading into Farm, Bridge and Priory, competitors will now tackle a new infield complex.

The circuit then joins the National Straight before returning to the original grand prix circuit at Brooklands.

A new pit and paddock complex is scheduled to be completed at Silverstone by summer 2011, which will feature new garages, a race control building, media centre, hospitality and VIP spectator zones.