HOLDEN 1
05-08-2008, 05:45 PM
SANDOWN Raceway is planning for the return of V8 Supercar racing to the circuit.
The track has been under pressure to keep its spot on the racing schedule because the facilities are becoming outdated.
But plans for an overhaul of the track and pit lane could be enough to save it from the axe.
The overhaul is part of the Melbourne Racing Club's master plan for the track's future.
V8 Supercars Australia has been pushing for revamped pit facilities to make fan access easier as well as safety improvements for the track.
The track has lost its traditional place on the schedule as the warm-up event for the Bathurst 1000.
That went to Phillip Island after circuit owner Lindsay Fox committed to major track upgrades.
A spokesman for V8 Supercars Australia said the company supported the plans and was keen to come to an agreement.
Sandown is the closest permanent circuit to a major city, making it a desirable venue for the V8 Supercars.
Should the plans go ahead, V8 Supercars chairman Tony Cochrane said he would give Sandown a special event to make up for the loss of the 500km race.
The track has been under pressure to keep its spot on the racing schedule because the facilities are becoming outdated.
But plans for an overhaul of the track and pit lane could be enough to save it from the axe.
The overhaul is part of the Melbourne Racing Club's master plan for the track's future.
V8 Supercars Australia has been pushing for revamped pit facilities to make fan access easier as well as safety improvements for the track.
The track has lost its traditional place on the schedule as the warm-up event for the Bathurst 1000.
That went to Phillip Island after circuit owner Lindsay Fox committed to major track upgrades.
A spokesman for V8 Supercars Australia said the company supported the plans and was keen to come to an agreement.
Sandown is the closest permanent circuit to a major city, making it a desirable venue for the V8 Supercars.
Should the plans go ahead, V8 Supercars chairman Tony Cochrane said he would give Sandown a special event to make up for the loss of the 500km race.