Formula 1 at Duxford

Formula1 cars first started being tested at the IWM at Duxford in 2009. The testing of F1 cars is a highly specialised activity, and the IWM is paid for the use of the runway.
Since then a number of different F1 teams have used the track, starting with Renault (see left) and their activity is subject to a protocol agreed with the South Cambs District environment officers, and the local parish councils.

This includes the time that the testing can start and finish, duration and break-times, and noise monitoring. I have been talking to the environment officers and I am pleased that the racing teams and the IWM are being considerate of local requirements.
For example, the testing that was due to take place on 15 May was delayed in the morning as local schoolchildren were taking their SATS exams. I have asked that there is noise assessment done during the next test day, on 19 June, so that the situation is kept under review. But so far, this has worked reasonably well for four years.