Clay Pigeon Raceway will stay open for 'next few seasons'

Clay Pigeon Raceway, a karting circuit tied to the early careers of Formula One legends Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, is due to be redeveloped after plans for the leisure complex off the A37 between Dorchester to Yeovil at Wardon Hill were approved at the beginning of July.

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.

The plan replaces the current mix of go‑kart circuit, shooting ground, retail units and static caravan park with the 226 chalet-style holiday homes and two units for staff.

Now, following discussions between the management and owners of Clay Pigeon Raceway, it has been announced that the site will stay open for practice, kart hire, events and races for at least another two to three years, which will be reviewed year on year as the development progresses.

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A statement from raceway owners Chelborough Ltd, Ian and Lee Rennison and Barry Crook, said: “Further to the granting of planning permission for the proposed holiday park and with discussions between the management and owners of Clay Pigeon Raceway, we are delighted to announce that we are still open for practice, hire karts, corporate events, sprints and all racing for at least another two to three years and then year on year as the development moves on.

“Understandably we realise the emotions that losing the venue can bring but, were still here for all our enjoyment with the sport we all love and we are looking forward to the next few seasons race meetings.

“Hopefully we will see you all soon and the owners, staff and management would like to thank you all for your support and are looking forward to seeing you all again for the next few years.”

Dorset Council’s northern area planning committee voted 5-3 to accept the plans after a long debate which heard pleas to reject the plans and keep the race track.

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.

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.

The same course was used by Lando Norris, below, the current 26-year-old McLaren champion.