New Layout for Warden Law
January 2026 saw big changes to the layout of Karting North East’s Warden Law circuit. The original circuit laid in 1996, and extended a few years later, has undoubtably stood the test of time, however it was time for a refresh and an upgrade.
Planning for the work began in early 2025 with the project spilt into two phases
- Phase 1 – St John’s to Paddock Bend – January 2026
- Phase 2 – Main Straight to St John’s
Both phases of the work had two main objectives 1) create better racing and more overtaking opportunities and 2) bring the circuit up to an international FIA/CIK approved standard. While appearing a simple task a lot of things had to be taken into consideration from consultation with front running drivers, circuit design companies and of course most importantly safety, as well as organising bodies such as Motorsport UK and the National Karting Association.
Phase 1 final designs were laid out at the end of 2025, with significant changes to “Senna 2” and “Paddock Bend”, also combining a widening of the circuit to 8 meters (up from the current 7m) and installation of FIA/CIK profile kerbing.
The initial part of the work was to mark out and lay the base of the new design and install the custom moulded kerbing, not easy when UK weather decides to throw snow and ice during the first week!
Finally though, the ground softened and work could continue..
Once the foundations and binding courses were laid the tarmac top could begin (snow still on the ground!!)
Freshly laid and still steaming..
Once the tarmac was laid, the work then began on regrading the runoffs, painting the kerbs and white lines and adjusting the barrier system to match the needs of the new layout, all with guidance and inline with FIA/CIK, MSUK & NKA regulations. The weather was against us again continuing with the wettest January on record.
Finally some dry weather and Phase 1 complete, the grass has even started to regrow!
Karts on track and all ready for the Warden Law to host Round 1 of the Wera Tools British Kart Championship
If you haven’t tried the new layout yet, and want to get your time on the leader board, you can check availability and book via our online booking system here
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