Donington Ventures Leisure, operator of Donington Park, has submitted plans for the first phase of the Formula One race track's £100m re-development to North West Leicestershire District Council.

The circuit's upgrade is in preparation for the British Formula One Grand Prix, which will be staged at Donington for the next 10 years, starting from 2010. The new circuit has been designed by renowned Formula One race track architect Hermann Tilke.

As part of the plans for the 2.5-mile facility, the paddock and pit complex will be rebuilt and relocated to allow for a three mile extension of the track, which will include a sequence of new corners, as well as the reconfiguration of existing bends.

"The lengthened track will include a sweeping curve with a computer-simulated lap of 77 seconds that will allow cars and bikes to travel at speeds up to 200mph", reported BBC News.

When complete, the development will also feature a media and race control centre, a new clubhouse, suites pit and paddock buildings and grandstands.

"The submission of these plans heralds the start of a massive re-development project and a new era for Donington Park," said Simon Gillett, the circuit's chief executive officer.

The 2009 British Motorcycle Grand Prix and the World Superbike Championship, which will be held at Donington in 2009, will be unaffected by the re-development.

Donington Ventures is expecting the council's decision in early November.