Since 2001, Dunsfold Aerodrome—a disused WWII airfield 40 miles from London—has been the home of Top Gear, including the show's famous test track. But soon, that might not be the case. Local news organization GetSurrey reports that a plan to build 1800 homes at Dunsfold was approved last Thursday, likely moving the test track one step closer to destruction.

According to an FAQ page posted to its site, Dunsfold Park—the organization behind the proposed housing development—says it will not force out businesses that already make their homes at the Aerodrome. However, activity on the runways would cease. That means Top Gear's track would be no more, as concrete from the runways will be removed and repurposed for the new village.

It's unclear if Dunsfold Park's plans will impact the Top Gear studio, which is also located at the Aerodrome. A spokesperson for the show declined to comment on the situation when reached by Jalopnik.

In addition to the 1800 homes, Dunsfold Park plans to build a church, a school, and retailers and restaurants at the site. It's estimated that building all these homes will take eight to 13 years.

The test track has featured heavily on Top Gear, as it's where many of the show's car reviews, celebrity laps, and other segments are filmed. Famously, the track is where Top Gear gets lap times on new cars, in the hands of anonymous racing driver "The Stig." McLaren also used the track for development of its first modern road car, the MP4-12C.

It's unclear when Top Gear might have to cease using Dunsfold's runways, as Dunsfold Park hasn't announced when work will begin.

via Jalopnik



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