A second circuit alongside Bathurst’s iconic Mount Panorama is a step closer to being built, with the NSW Government adding funds to boost the motorsport expansion project.

The project is called Velocity Park but it has nothing to do with a certain airline’s frequent flyer program. Bathurst Regional Council instead identified issues surrounding the existing 6.213km circuit that doubles as public road, restricting access for residents when closed.

Expressions of interest opened on April 1, 2017, and called for companies to design and build the second racetrack within preliminary guidelines.

New mt panorama track

Velocity Park will cost an estimated $52.4 million and take two years to build following final sign off. The project has now edged closer to that point, with the NSW Government having this week announced it would triple state funds from the previous $5 million to a fuller $15m, adding to Bathurst Regional Council’s $27.4m spend. Both state government and local council have applied for Commonwealth support for the remaining $10m required.

new track designs for mount panorama

“All levels of government have shown strong support for Velocity Park and most importantly, the project has the backing of the motorsport industry,” claimed Member for Bathurst, Paul Toole MP, at this week’s announcement held at Mount Panorama.

new track at mount panorama

Meanwhile, car brands launching new sports cars in Australia would welcome a second option beyond the notoriously expensive existing Mount Panorama circuit. Given the need to restrict resident access, it currently makes the Bathurst track less affordable to use for new car events than Phillip Island in Victoria.

Illustrations supplied by Bathurst Regional Council.