Gillett optimistic about grand prix

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

A £100million revamp of the circuit has stuttered amid the global economic downturn and Gillett on Tuesday faces a crucial vote by North West Leicestershire District Council, who are to review their decision to grant planning permission for the proposed changes.

Despite the mounting problems, Gillett on Tuesday insisted the redevelopment of Donington remains on track, telling BBC Radio Five Live: "Between 100 and 101% we're still going to make sure the grand prix will be here. We have had some trials and tribulations but I'm sure the grand prix will be here next year."

Gillett's plans were thrown into further doubt last month after legal proceedings were issued by the circuit's owners, Wheatcroft & Son Limited, who are seeking £2.47million in rent arrears from Gillett's company, Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd.

Gillett, who last year struck a 10-year deal with F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to stage the British GP, was set to confirm plans at the end of March for a debenture scheme to raise funds but they have been put on hold.

The stalling of that scheme has given further fuel to Gillett's critics, who believe the timeframe to transform Donington into a world-class facility is unrealistic.

Gillett, however, remains "very positive" the debenture scheme will bear fruit, adding: "We should have some answers on that one soon."

He added: "I'm concerned about the British Grand Prix - we're here to save it not jeopardise it. We entered this knowing what we had to do - we knew we had mountains to climb.

"It makes me and the team more determined. We are 110% committed to make it happen and 100% certain it will happen."