SINGAPORE: Work has started at the Marina Bayfront for the F1 Singapore Grand Prix as officials await a decision next month by the international governing body for motorsports,FIA,on whether Singapore will proceed with a night or day race.
In nine months, what's now a muddy patch of land at the Marina Promenade will be transformed into a sleek Pit Building for the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix.
Trade and Industry Minister Mr Lim Hng Kiang, who graced Friday's groundbreaking said the event marks an important milestone. He noted that although the F1 Singapore Grand Prix is set to flag off in a year's time, the infrastructure will have to be up in about nine months. "But Singapore is a City of Possibilities, so I have full confidence we will be ready for the 28 September race date."
According to Mr Lim Neo Chian, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, the Pit Building will be completed by the end of May next year, which is a construction industry record.
The Pit Building, a key element in the infrastructure of the F1 Singapore Grand Prix, will house the race control facilities, team garages, hospitality lounges for about 4,000 guests, a Media Centre and other facilities.
Located along the waterfront at a new stretch of road off Republic Boulevard, the estimated S$33 million, three-storey Pit Building will measure some 350 metres long.
The structure has been designed to be simple yet modern, and also environmentally sustainable.
Taking up most of the ground floor is space for 36 garages for the 12 race teams.
The Media Centre, hospitality lounges, race control centre and the winners’ podium will be situated at the second floor.
The top floor with a modern, aerodynamic structure will house more hospitality lounges and an open rooftop terrace for a bird's eye view of the street race.
The Pit Building will feature an extensive use of glass to provide guests in the exclusive Paddock Club a panoramic view of the track’s starting straight and all the exciting pit lane action that will take place just metres away.
Project developer Singapore GP, will also have to work with local firm Jurong Primewide Pte Ltd, which is the main contractor, to ensure that construction meets the stringent requirements of Formula One Management and the FIA.
Channelnewsasia.com