Singapore confident of holding Formula 1 Grand Prix at night

"Various tests" on lighting levels and road conditions have been carried out with safety the key concern, said Minister for Trade and Industry Lim Hng Kiang.

 Every effort is being made to assure FIA, the governing body for motorsports, that the grand prix under lights would be safe, Lim noted.

 "We're fairly optimistic" over the night racing prospects, he added.

 With the date of the first grand prix set for September 28, 2008, Lim said race promoter Singapore GP Ptd Ltd and various government agencies "have been running their own race" to prepare for the event.

 "The working teams face the daunting task of building 20 per cent of the circuit and pit building from ground up," Lim said. "We will be ready."

   The grand prix is expected to generate tourism receipts of about 100 million Singapore dollars (65,789 US dollars) and attract an annual turnout of more than 80,000 spectators, mainly foreigners.

 Holding the race is part of the city-state's drive to attract more visitors. The construction of two casino resorts is also under way and a 165-foot Ferris Wheel, the world's largest.

 By the year 2015, Singapore hopes to attract 17 million visitors and is heading to a record 10 million this year, Lim said.

 The 5.05-kilometre-long street circuit offers a number of overtaking opportunities, fast turns and technically challenging sections for drivers.

 "We look forward to next September, and the sound of race engines roaring to life around out city centre" for the first time, Lim said.

DPA