As the Macau Grand Prix prepares to mark a significant milestone in its rich history, preparations are well underway to usher in a new era of development. Major infrastructure projects are currently proceeding, and enhanced improvements in the areas of safety and logistics are planned for the 60th anniversary Diamond Jubilee. Two decades ago the existing Macau Grand Prix building was completed – just in time for the 40th running of the event. In the 20 years since, the stature of the Grand Prix has grown to such an extraordinary extent that the race programme now includes two FIA events – the FIA Formula 3 Intercontinental Cup and the double-header season finale of the FIA World Touring Car Championship – in addition to the world renowned Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix and a trio of international races which ushered in a new era in 2011: The Macau GT Cup, the Roadsport Challenge and the Macau Touring Car Cup. As the Grand Prix becomes increasingly popular with yet more drivers, teams, journalists and supporters from the world over flocking to the SAR each year, this year's Diamond Jubilee signifies an exciting new era with the start of the two-phase construction of a new Macau Grand Prix building. Phase I of the project will see the completion of a new Race Control Tower in time for the 60th running of the Grand Prix, while the existing Grand Prix Building will remain in operation until the completion of the November event. The Grand Prix building is scheduled for demolition at the end of 2013 or early 2014, with the new facility completed in time for the 61st Macau Grand Prix. Demolition of the 20-year-old Race Control Tower is now complete, and foundation works for the new building were completed on June 20th. Construction of the new structure is already underway, with Phase I of the Macau Grand Prix development project to be operational by the end of October this year. For the Guia Circuit itself, each year new measures are added in line with developments in FIA safety regulations. As this year marks the start of the new era, additional safety features, such as tall crash protection barriers and fences, will be implemented to ensure both driver and spectator safety. In order to improve traffic flow during the event itself, the number of gates in the Armco barriers will increase again this year. The number of moveable gates will rise from last year's 110 to 120, with additional locations including the exits at residential parking lots and the hospital. On the track, resurfacing will begin from this summer onwards and work in busy areas will be carried out at night and during the day at weekends and minimise possible inconvenience to local residents.
