Top Gear’s Famous Test Track Shuts Down, Make Way For Housing Development

Now, almost 15 years after the track was designed, it will be redeveloped for the housing project and it will destroy along with hangars and Dunsfold Business Park.

By Sreejith

Updated: Tuesday, December 20, 2016, 12:05 [IST]

According to a report, a local council in Surrey, England has approved to redevelop Dunsfold Aerodrome and build 1,800 new homes. Most of the automobile enthusiasts know this aerodrome because it is the site of the test track used by Top Gear.

Top Gear’s Famous Test Track Shuts Down, Make Way For Housing Development

The famous car show was resurrected in 2002 by Jeremy Clarkson with help of executive producer Andy Wilman. Then, Dunsfold Aerodrome became the official test track for the TV programme.

Now, almost 15 years after the track was designed, it will be redeveloped for the housing project and it will destroy along with hangars and Dunsfold Business Park.

Waverley Borough Council voted 10-8 in favour of the housing project which will open new job opportunities and more affordable homes. BBC claims that already the site houses over 100 businesses.

Several reports suggest that the bad ratings and continuous loss of viewers of this year's Top Gear TV series are the main reasons to blame.

The current Top Gear was sharply criticised and had historically low viewership with the previous seasons hosted by much beloved Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond.

According to Jim McAllister, the chief executive of the complex, "the development of Dunsfold Aerodrome will provide homes for young families currently priced out of the area, direct development away from green fields, create new jobs and deliver a range of new community facilities and infrastructure improvements."