The new-for-2011 pit and paddock complex at the Silverstone circuit is progressing on schedule, according to the track owners, and is still on course to be completed by May next year ahead of the 2011 British Grand Prix.
The new complex is the second part of the Silverstone redevelopment plan, and follows the addition of the new Arena section of the circuit in 2010.
The new series of corners, including a fast and reprofiled Abbey corner and some rather anonymous-looking hairpins, were used for the 2010 F1 race at the venue, with the teams still using the old pit area for the weekend.
The new pit and paddock will be located on the straight between the Club and Abbey corners, making the new super-fast Abbey chicane the first turn, and is set to be completed in time for the 2011 British Grand Prix, which is scheduled for 10th July.
The new complex will include swanky new pit buildings for the teams, along with a new race control building, and a new podium and media centre.
Predictably, there will also be a plush new corporate hospitality section and VIP area. Because, you know, that's what Formula One is all about after all.
Speaking about the progress in a press statement from Silverstone, the circuit's managing director Richard Phillips said that: "We are on schedule to meet our self-imposed completion date of May, 2011.
"This pioneering development, and the redevelopment of Silverstone at large, will provide a world-class facility where all forms of motor sport can be celebrated in style -- by competitors and spectators alike."
He added: "As the iconic building on the circuit, the new Pit, Paddock and Conference Complex will reaffirm Silverstone's position as a premier racing destination and our status as a global leader."
The new building is being constructed after Silverstone secured a 17-year deal to run the British Grand Prix following the financial collapse of the Donington Park bid.
Phillips also revealed in a separate interview that Bernie Ecclestone, long-time decrier of the British venue, will visit the new complex in the next few weeks.
"He had a look around during the grand prix, and he has promised he will come up in the next few weeks and have another look," Phillips smiled.
"Since we negotiated the new contract he is extremely supportive as he was very pleased with the new circuit and what happened with the grand prix in the summer."
He added: "[Bernie] also thinks the new building is stunning, so he really is very much on side. We can be proud of what's happening here and hold our heads up, and that was important to him as well."
Phillips also explained that the building work at Silverstone would not end with the paddock complex, suggesting that there will be a large hotel attached to the paddock, likely for around 2013.
The new pit and paddock complex is estimated to be costing the British Racing Drivers Club some £27million.
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