MALLORY PARK is investing more than £500,000 in circuit improvements this winter, including the complete resurfacing of the track and paddock areas. The 1.39-mile long track will be completely resurfaced in specially mixed Tarmac that will offer circuit users superb levels of grip and a consistent new surface that should see lap times tumble come Spring and Summer 2011. Professional contractors will carry out the work in January and February in time for the first meeting of the 2011 calendar – The Buildbase Mallory Trophy Championship Motorcycle Races on Sunday 6th March. As well as resurfacing the track, the entire paddock area will be given new Tarmac and leveled, turning it into one of the best standing areas for competitors in the UK at any circuit. Further safety improvements will be made during the construction period. The run-off at Gerards will be pushed back 25-metres to allow plenty of space for fast bikes or cars to come to a halt safely. These modifications will also see a spectator banking and new service road being installed. The modification will see the area behind the new works being landscaped and turned into a nature area for the locals and walkers in the area to enjoy. The Stebbe Straight is also under going safety improvements from the exit of Gerard’s to the exit of Edwina’s. The barrier is being replaced and moved back on the left hand side for over a quarter mile, increasing the run off areas throughout the length of the straight and through the Edwina’s section. These modifications will make the Edwina’s section visible from the exit of Gerard’s thereby improving rider visability and safety. For the spectators these will result in the Stebbe Straight parking area being landscaped and tiered to allow improved viewing at a point on the circuit where the views are already second to none. A new service road, spectator fencing and public address system will also be installed throughout the modified area. Mallory Park General Manager John Ward said: “The circuit will benefit enormously from a new surface and riders, drivers and competitors who attend the track in 2011 will find a new grippy surface to enjoy. “It is a big investment from BARC to improve the track and paddock area that will increase enjoyment of events for participants while also improving the quality of racing for spectators. “The safety improvements are simply another step in our programme of creating one of the safest venues to enjoy motor sport in the UK – something borne out by the official BSB statistics for the last number of years when we ranked amongst the safest of all circuits visited.” The renovation of the circuit is expected to lead to an increase in interest from major motorcycle and car race promoters and organisers in 2011 and 2012. Ward said: “Many local Leicestershire contractors and suppliers will benefit from this investment and we are sure the improvements will help the track continue to put on spectacular events and support the local economy and service providers in the coming years.” For more information or to buy tickets to Mallory Park events simply visit www.mallorypark.co.uk.