Eastern Creek Raceway will receive a $9 million upgrade in an announcement made at the Sydney-based circuit by NSW minister for sport and recreation and minister for major events Kevin Greene.

The announcement, made at the official V8 Supercars pre-season test this morning, revealed that the government will provide $7 million, while the Australian Racing Drivers Club will contribute an additional $2 million for the project.

An additional circuit will be added to to complex, as will fresh new pit lane facilities.

According the the announcement, the new track will feature four different configurations – two being able for use at the same time.

“These additions are vitally important to the upgrade to the facility because not only will it be able to maintain its international status, most importantly it will allow continued use of the facility 365 days a year by so many organisations,” Greene commented.

“Over the last few years we’ve found that a number of organisations who wish to use this facility, whether it’s for driver education training, whether it’s for corporate days, whether it’s for track trials, cannot use the facility due to the increase in demand.

“The additional track will allow for increased usage, greater flexibility and most importantly it will maintain the core income strength for the track.

“It was easier to invest $7 million than to put more days in the year.”

ARDC president Andrew Leithhead thanked the government and looks forward to the increased use of the venue in various capacities.

“Eastern Creek International Raceway currently operates at full capacity year-round providing facilities for driver training, cycling, concerts and other community activities as well as motorsport,” Leithhead said.

“The circuit upgrades will allow the ARDC to expand the capacity of the track to service demand from both club-level motorsport and broader community needs.”

The Australian Superbike Championship last raced at Eastern Creek in 2009, not scheduled to stage an event this season either according to the current 2011 calendar.