The LDN Collective and DAR consultancy firm have proposed a redevelopment plan for the riverfront area in East London, envisioning a "globally recognised waterfront destination for sports,

leisure and entertainment". One of the main attractions of this plan would be a London Grand Prix, held on a high-speed street circuit that would cover 3.64 miles, feature 22 corners and have an average speed of 127mph, making for an estimated lap time of 1m42s.

The proposed London Grand Prix would run in addition to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, and its street circuit would feature protracted sections of full-throttle running combined with heavy braking zones to maximise overtaking opportunities. The concept is being pitched as the British equivalent of the Montreal venue in Canada.

One of the unique features of this proposed Grand Prix is the use of floating modules that can form cycling and running tracks, but can also be disassembled to reveal an FIA-grade track surface. These floating units would be temporarily repurposed to create grandstands with a total capacity of 95,000 and trackside entertainment facilities.

The proposal also includes a "unique" pitlane that would run along the first-floor servicing and loading deck of the ExCeL, host to Formula E's London E-Prix. This elevated platform would increase viewing opportunities and enable a grandstand on the main straight to sit between the track and pitlane.

Max Farrell, CEO of the LDN Collective, stated that they have designed a track that meets all of Formula 1's requirements and regulations and that they have discussed the proposal with the Greater London Authority, who are developing a water strategy and planning framework with Newham Council, which they hope to align with. Farrell also said that, "With or without F1, these proposals are transformational and would be a huge boost to London and the UK globally, as we emerge from the pandemic."

F1 has flirted with the idea of a London Grand Prix in the past. Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone supposedly targeted a street circuit that passed the capital's most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, in the early 2010s. F1 owner Liberty Media has also considered the idea and encouraged Silverstone to negotiate protective clauses when forming its new contract in 2019. However, Autosport reports that there are currently no discussions taking place between Formula 1 and the LDN Collective and DAR. 

In conclusion, the LDN Collective and DAR have proposed an ambitious redevelopment plan for the riverfront area in East London, including a London Grand Prix held on a high-speed street circuit that would attract a significant number of tourists and sports enthusiasts from all over the world. This plan is designed to transform the riverfront area into a globally recognised waterfront destination for sports, leisure, and entertainment, with the floating modules and the unique pitlane being among its key features. While F1 has shown interest in the past, there are currently no discussions taking place between Formula 1 and the LDN Collective and DAR. Photo by John Cummings, Wikimedia commons.