Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Tenders For Changi Track Soon

Source : The Straits Times, Oct 17, 2007

TENDERS are expected to be called soon for interested parties to build a permanent motor sports track in Changi.

With Singapore set to host its inaugural Formula One race next year, interest in motor sports is gathering pace among Singaporeans. The government is believed to be keen to build on that interest with the new facility.

Apart from go-kart and touring-car races, the facility will likely be also able to host events like the MotoGP, Motocross and Japan's Super GT.

Work is expected to begin next year, and should finish by 2009.

A pit building, garages and other facilities will likely be built too.

It is believed that the idea for a permanent circuit was mooted by the Prime Minister's Office.

A source involved in the project said the track, probably about 4km long, is likely to be located beside the Singapore Air Show grounds off Changi Coast Road.

Early estimates put the cost of the entire project at about $4 million.

No formal announcement has been made, but the motor sports fraternity is already eagerly anticipating the buzz that the facility will bring.

Said Tan Teng Lip, president of the Singapore Motor Sports Association: 'This new track is definitely very positive news for us, as it's something we've been hoping for for a long time.

'We probably have to thank F1 for this, as there's been a lot of interest generated since the announcement of the race.

'This facility will be able to cater to the expected increase in interest in the coming years.'

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