Historic karting circuit that launched Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris’s careers could be forced to close
A historic Dorset karting circuit, which has been used by British F1 champions during their early careers, is under threat of closure amid redevelopment plans.
The track is where Lewis Hamilton claimed his maiden victory, Jenson Button honed his skills, and current world champion Lando Norris first took to the track aged seven.
The owner of Clay Pigeon Raceway near Dorchester has submitted plans to transform the site into an upmarket holiday resort, a proposal that would see the renowned 815-metre track demolished.
Dorset Council confirmed on Tuesday a planning committee has postponed its decision on the application after the local parish council was denied the chance to submit comments.
Richard Crabb, chairman of the meeting, indicated the matter would likely return before the Northern Area planning committee in April.
The circuit has formed part of Britain’s motorsport heritage since the late 1950s, establishing itself as one of the nation’s most significant grassroots karting venues.
Button, who secured the 2009 Formula One World Championship, considered Clay Pigeon his home track and trained there extensively during his formative years.
Hamilton’s connection to the venue dates back to his earliest competitive success, while Norris launched his racing journey at the facility before going on to claim the sport’s ultimate prize.
A historic Dorset karting circuit is under threat of closure amid redevelopment plans
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The proposed redevelopment would replace the existing karting track, shooting ground and caravan park with timber holiday lodges, landscaped gardens, a wildlife pond and hotel facilities.
The site sits adjacent to the A37 between Dorchester and Yeovil.
Developers have suggested the scheme would proceed in phases, with the racing circuit potentially removed during later stages.
Paul Chick, who has been involved with Clay Pigeon Raceway for over 35 years, has urged councillors to block the proposal.
The track is where Lewis Hamilton claimed his maiden victory
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Clay Pigeon Raceway
He said: “Clay Pigeon Raceway has been part of the British motorsport landscape since the late 1950s and is one of the most important grassroots karting circuits in the country.
“Very few circuits anywhere in the UK can claim such a legacy.”
Mr Chick dismissed suggestions from developers the track is no longer financially sustainable, insisting it attracts more visitors than ever before.
He said: “The circuit is busier now than it has ever been. Race meetings attract hundreds of competitors and spectators from across the UK.”
The owner of Clay Pigeon Raceway near Dorchester has submitted plans to transform the site into an upmarket holiday resort
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He warned that losing the venue would represent “a devastating blow not only to British motorsport but also to the local community”.
The track has said online that it has no intention of closing, despite the looming threat.
Those behind the redevelopment argue their scheme would generate employment opportunities, strengthen the local tourism economy and reduce noise pollution across the protected landscape.
However, the potential closure would significantly affect youth motorsport initiatives that rely on the facility.
