The team at Brands Hatch have been working on a range of venue improvements over the off-season, ensuring the circuit is in the best possible shape for what is expected to be another hugely busy season on two and four wheels in 2024.
Major works include the completion of the circuit runoff upgrade at Hailwoods Hill on the run up to Druids. This follows the installation of updated debris fencing, built to the latest FIA standards, last autumn as part of the venue’s ongoing commitment to safety for spectators and on-circuit participants.
With the on-circuit element of this project now complete, work will commence on improving the extent of the spectator viewing banks in that area over the coming months. The spectator access between Hailwoods to Druids has also been improved with a widened walkway in front of the grandstand.
Safety improvements have been made to several of the marshal posts, with fencing replaced at Post 7, inside Paddock Hill Bend. Similar upgrades are in the works at Post 11 and Post 14 on the Grand Prix circuit, with both scheduled for completion before the season’s start.
Other alterations include drainage improvements in the runoff area at Clearways and Clark Curve, plus general repair and replacement work to barriers around the venue. The debris fence has also been replaced on the inside at Druids.
The venue CCTV network has been upgraded over the off-season too, further improving venue-wide communication and response.
Visitors to Brands Hatch this year may also notice that some trees have been removed on the inside at Druids. Sadly, this was necessary due to the spread of the destructive ash dieback disease, with more trees scheduled to be displaced in the near future. More detailed plans for replanting trees within the venue will be shared in due course.
Brands Hatch Circuit Manager, Mike Lally, said: “We’ve used this winter to proactively target a number of key areas in which we can improve the general safety of the venue for spectators, competitors and trackside personnel. Those targeted projects, along with the completion of a major project at Hailwoods Hill and general upgrades to infrastructure all mean that the venue is in excellent health ahead of what we’re all hoping will be another memorable season at Brands Hatch.”