The British home of Formula 1 has received a lottery grant to fund the conversion of a former World War II hangar on the former aerodrome site.

Up to 50,000 motor racing enthusiasts a year are expected to visit the Silverstone Heritage Museum, which will display dozens of Formula 1 and other racing cars and bikes along with personal items from famous drivers.

World War II hangar will be reclad and extended

The project architect, heading up the building services team, is Jane Lock-Smith of Cube Design.

A £9.5m shell and core and base build contract will be let to the successful contractor to refurb and reclad the existing hangar with a new large extension and associated external works. Fitout works for the project will be let as a separate deal.

PQQs are due out this month with an invitation to tender sent to shortlisted firms in July.

The centre is due to open in 2019.

The exhibition by Mather & Co will create a series of interactive exhibitions and displays

A selection of the most important and striking examples of cars and motorcycles connected to Silverstone will be on display.

Displays will use the latest technology to tell the compelling stories of the people that have been part of the site’s history and those who have played an important role in the history of British motor racing: from medieval monks and WW2 air crew to the racing drivers, riders, engineers, mechanics and marshals of today.