Donington Park will benefit from an extensive programme of upgrades and enhancements this year, with a range of projects completed and underway at the East Midlands circuit ahead of what is expected to be another busy season in 2024.
Key alterations to the main circuit infrastructure itself include the installation of new kerbs and an extension of the debris fencing at the Fogarty Esses. Additional trackside revisions include the replacement of old Armco supports with new steel posts on the Dunlop Straight and rebuilt tyre walls at McLeans and Hollywood.
Other improvements include the replacement of the pit lane garage doors, renewed spectator fencing on the Melbourne Loop and a new perimeter fence at the Old Hairpin. The paddock PA system has been upgraded too, improving the communication network between race control and on-track participants.
The catering facilities are getting an update too, with the addition of two semi-permanent catering units, one at Hollywood and the other on the infield. The superb Garage 39 restaurant will benefit from changes as well, with the creation of a new catering team office and a improved reception.
Other detail refinements include the placement of fresh artwork in the main hospitality suites, whilst visitors to Garage 39 will be able to enjoy a new centrepiece car – the Dallara IndyCar raced in 2008 by Justin Wilson. The Champ Car, which was previously on display, will move to a new home in an expanded Megastore which is moving to a larger unit for this season.
Further updates of note include new vehicles for venue services and catering along with updated cutting gear for the circuit rescue unit. Those using the circuit this year can also benefit from a refurbished fuel station, which will have a new canopy.
On top of the main circuit site, work continues apace on the adjacent Donington Hall development where the spectacular 1790 Grade II* listed property is being transformed into a 49-bedroom hotel. Spectators using the Coppice entrance at major events may notice some changes to the Donington Hall access road. A revised entry to the Coppice pedestrian tunnel has also been created over the winter as a consequence of this development, with associated groundworks.
Donington Park Circuit Manager, Andrew Swift, said: “We’ve been hugely busy at Donington Park over the off-season. We’ve taken the opportunity, not just to improve the track itself, but also to upgrade our off-track, support, catering and communication infrastructure. We’ve been able to make some nice detail changes too, so we’re confident that anybody visiting the circuit this year, whether they be competitors, spectators or corporate guests, will enjoy their time at the venue.”