Resurfacing works have kicked off at the ultra-abrasive Barbagallo Wanneroo Raceway in Perth.
The circuit, operated by the WA Sporting Car Club (WASCC), has not had a new surface since 2004, the year from which Jason Bright’s Supercars lap record still stands today.
WASCC confirmed in December that Barbagallo would be closed for a month to complete the work on the 2.42km track in Perth’s north.
The new surface is being laid by Asphaltech Contracting and will feature a smaller, smoother aggregate designed to enhance grip and tyre longevity.
Workers, who commenced the resurfacing yesterday, are currently removing the 30mm-thick top layer of asphalt.
“After sweeping, a rough, fresh, clean surface is ready for asphalting,” read a post on the WASCC Facebook page.
“The last two photographs show where the old timing loops (blue wires) were intersected at one of 4 locations, and the remaining 50mm of old asphalt (after 30mm removed) overlying the original limestone sub-base.
“This trackside edge is ready to receive additional kerbing at positions off the traditional racing line.”
The investment arrives after the circuit received news that Wanneroo Council has tabled an option to extend the lease of the track by a further 11 years at the end of the existing 10-year term.
The ‘Barbagallo Wanneroo Raceway’ moniker is a recent rebranding which harks back to the Wanneroo Raceway name that the circuit went by until 1992.
Barbagallo will host the Pirtek Perth SuperNight, its first Supercars racing under lights, on May 2-4.