Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton is set to have his history-making achievements honoured in his home town, with Stevenage Borough Council announcing plans today to name a building in the town centre after him.
The 33-year-old former Peartree and John Henry Newman pupil clinched his fifth F1 title in Mexico on Sunday, drawing him level with Juan Manuel Fangio’s for title wins. Only Michael Schumacher has more, with seven.
And, to mark the feat, SBC has revealed under its SG1 town centre regeneration plans it intends to name a public service hub – which will house a new library, NHS health centre, the council’s offices and more – the Lewis Hamilton Hub.
The council will need to get permission from the F1 star – who learned his trade at the Rye House Kart Circuit near Hoddesdon – to name the building after him, but Stevenage councillor Richard Henry is hopeful the idea will become a reality.
The executive member for children, young people and leisure said: “What a truly magnificent achievement! Congratulations to Lewis, we are so proud of you and hope your outstanding record receives the national recognition it deserves.
“We intend to recognise Lewis’ exceptional career as we bring our newly-regenerated town centre to life.
“Our brand new ‘Lewis Hamilton Hub’ is to be named in his honour to celebrate our local hero.”
Stevenage Borough Council leader Sharon Taylor added: “Lewis’ outstanding achievement is the incredible result of his determination, vision, hard work and absolute passion for his sport.
“Our five-time world champion F1 driver has now written his name in history as an international sporting legend. Lewis Hamilton, your home town of Stevenage is full of pride and admiration. Congratulations!”
More immediate acknowledgements will include a banner in the town congratulating Lewis, as well as nods to his achievements on SBC’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
There will also be a section of the fireworks display, held from 7.30pm at Fairlands Valley Park on November 5, dedicated to the F1 driver.
An audience of about 25,000 are expected to turn out for the biggest free firework show in the area, with the display synchronised to music through a rock show sound system.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here