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Search the Public Notice PortalA decision over the future of a karting track which launched the careers of Formula 1 world champions has been put on hold.
Clay Pigeon Raceway, a karting circuit tied to the early careers of Formula One legends Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, could be swept away under redevelopment plans for the Clay Pigeon leisure complex off the A37 Dorchester to Yeovil road.
Developers behind the scheme - which would see the transformation of the George Albert Hotel and adjoining Southern Counties Leisure site into a 5‑star holiday lodge park - propose demolishing almost all the existing facilities, including the renowned Clay Pigeon Raceway at Wardon Hill.
The plan replaces the current mix of go‑kart circuit, shooting ground, retail units and static caravan park with hundreds of timber holiday lodges, landscaped grounds, a wildlife pond and expanded hotel amenities.
A decision over the planning permission was due to be discussed at the Dorset Council Northern Area Planning Committee meeting today.
However, as a result of a parish council not having the opportunity to comment on the application, the decision was deferred and will now be made at a future meeting.
Chairman of the meeting, Richard Crabb, said: “The parish has not had the opportunity to comment on this application, and they must be provided this opportunity. So, this application will most likely be heard at the Northern Area planning committee in April. I can only apologise…”
Development plan for Clay Pigeon puts raceway under threat
Strong objection to plans to close Clay Pigeon Raceway
The loss of the racing circuit, off the A37 Dorchester to Yeovil road, is one of the most sensitive and symbolic elements of the proposal. Planning documents describe the track as “a unique facility” offering an 815‑metre course capable of hosting racing speeds of up to 60mph, a specification that has helped it become a staple of both British and national karting championships.
It is also the track where several of Britain’s greatest modern racing talents first cut their teeth.
Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula One World Champion, trained regularly at Clay Pigeon during his early career.
Lewis Hamilton also notched a key milestone at the circuit, winning his first race on the very same asphalt now earmarked for demolition.
The same course was used by Lando Norris, below, the current 26-year-old McLaren champion.
While the shooting ground at the site has been closed since 2015 due to land contamination from lead pellets, the kart track remains operational, and according to its website and social media, the operators have ‘no intention to move,’ despite having no control over the proposed development of the land.
Developers have indicated the scheme would be phased, with the kart track likely to be removed in the later stages. However, planners have raised concerns about how construction, contamination management and on‑site safety would be handled if lodges become occupied before all heavy works are conclude. A condition requiring a detailed phasing plan is expected before any agreement is finalised.
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