About Formula 1 Karting
Formula 1 Karting is a permanently closed karting venue in Tyne and Wear. This museum listing preserves information about the former circuit for historical reference and clearly distinguishes it from venues that are still operating. Browse the nearby alternatives below to find active karting venues in the area.
Detailed guide
Formula 1 Karting was once a prominent indoor go-karting track located on Forge Road in Dunston, Gateshead. Operated by Formula 1 Karting Ltd (which ran several tracks across the country), the venue was a popular destination for local youth groups, birthday parties, and corporate events.
However, the track's legacy is firmly tied to a severe health and safety disaster. During a 13-year-old's birthday party, the indoor arena filled with highly toxic levels of carbon monoxide. The investigation revealed an appalling lack of ventilation—the operators had no regular fume monitoring and were relying purely on opening the fire doors to air out the petrol fumes. Several children became severely ill, and a 20-year-old race marshal was rushed to the hospital with potentially lethal levels of poison in his bloodstream.
In 2013, the operating company pleaded guilty to multiple health and safety breaches and was hit with a massive £36,000 fine by Newcastle Crown Court. Following the incident and the heavy financial penalties, the venue permanently closed its doors, leaving behind a dark chapter in North East motorsport.
Status: Permanently Closed
- The Reason: Severe health and safety violations leading to heavy legal fines.
- Track Type: Indoor Tarmac/Concrete.
