Silverstone's efforts to run this year's British Grand Prix on the circuit¿s new Arena layout are close to getting the go-ahead.
British GP venue hopeful of running race on new layout
Silverstone managing director Richard Phillips has said that efforts to run this year's British Grand Prix on the circuit's new Arena layout are close to getting the go-ahead.
Work is currently underway to update the Northamptonshire track, with a new infield section being constructed as well as a widening of the start-finish straight.
Grandstands between Woodcote and Copse corners are being moved back to allow the latter and improved spectator facilities are also promised.
Formula One's corporate hospitality company, Allsport, has given its go-ahead for the new track, while the FIA is also in favour.
However, F1's commercial rights controller Bernie Ecclestone has yet to give his approval.
"It's yet to be decided," Phillips told
Autosport. "We need approval from three sides. So far two have said yes and one (Ecclestone) says maybe, so we'll work on that.
"Allsport has said yes. And while the FIA needs to homologate the new track of course, it is happy with the plan in principle.
"Bernie needs us to send him the plans for the changes and a report of the progress so far before he can agree, but I think it should be alright (for 2010)."
Silverstone won back the right to host the British Grand Prix in early December after Donington Park, which had gained the rights, was unable to raise funds needed for track upgrades.
