The new Stowe Complex at the Silverstone motor racing circuit, Northamptonshire, has been officially opened.

Its focal point is a new multi-surface 1.088 mile (1.751km) fully-licensed race track, which can be used to demonstrate chassis control systems such as ESP and ABS on modern vehicles. The complex is also home to a split braking area and a three-lane irrigated wet handling pad offering varying degrees of grip. Elsewhere at Silverstone, the Pit and Paddock Complex - scheduled for completion in 2011- will provide new garages, a race control building, a media centre, hospitality and VIP spectator zones and a primary paddock. The new pit wall has already been constructed on the straight between Club Corner and Abbey, while work on a new pit lane - with reorganised entry and exit points - is also ongoing.

Away from the track, two new hospitality buildings have been constructed with an eye on the automotive and corporate events markets. The first group of units will serve the new Stowe Complex and the second the existing Southern Circuit. Both buildings have roof terrace viewing along with briefing rooms and independent catering facilities. Pic: Silverstone's new Pit and Paddock Complex under construction