Fans will get the chance to enjoy on track action at Silverstone’s high-speed Wellington Straight a lot closer to the circuit starting with the 2023 Formula 1 season, as new fences will provide a better view while at the same time keeping the spectators out of harm’s way.
The Silverstone circuit is using the latest Geobrugg fencing to allow fans to watch the action closer to the track on the inside of the high-speed Wellington Straight. This will mean moving the fencing at the Silverstone Fan Zone about 15 m closer to the circuit as a result of the presence of a mobile debris fence system, which was also used for the Miami Grand Prix this year.
A total length of 248 m of fencing is being brought forward, leading down to the inside of Brooklands before ending ahead of the slow corner of Luffield.
Lee Howkins, who covers the management of all track licences, pre-inspections and for all events taking place on any of the three circuit configurations located at Silverstone, confirmed that this process was possible thanks to using the unique Geobrugg fences, that led to improved safety for drivers and at the same time offer a better view for fans from the stands:
“It’s a fully homologated system with the FIA and FIM. With the speed of the straight and the new safety aspects of Formula 1, it was the right time to move to the Geobrugg system. We want to make sure we’re giving the fans the best experience and the best views.” – Silverstone’s circuit manager said.
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The mobile debris fence system are designed according to the highest FIA standards and require just a fast and easy installation process. For Silverstone it will also not be difficult to change for other adaptions.
The fences must pass strict FIA tests to be used on a Formula 1 track, such as catching a 780 kg sphere fired from a cannon at 60 kph and a full-size car impacting at 120 kph at an angle of 20-degrees.
Dromo Circuit Design was part of the team working on this redevelopment project, making several simulations to assure the new fence placement would continue to be safe for fans, drivers and and track marshals.
“We decided to use this system, not only because it’s FIA approved but because it’s very easy to install,” explained Jarno Zaffelli, owner, founder and designer at Dromo Applied Italian Circuit Design – “and if we have to move it slightly or adjust something, we can. It was a no brainer.
“We are excited to be part of the redevelopment plans at Silverstone,” continued Jochen Braunwarth, the mastermind behind the development and global expansion of the Geobrugg motorsport area – “By bringing in our mobile debris fences, we can safely give spectators at the Wellington Straight a fantastic view of the track.” – he concluded.
Work has already started at the Silverstone circuit and is expected to be finalized in the next few weeks.
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