New state-of-the-art racing simulator centre opens in East Kilbride

A state-of-the-art racing simulator centre is now open in East Kilbride.

GP Racing Simulators officially opened to the public on May 17 in the town's Playsport.

Formula One Esports champion Lucas Blakeley, Formula One Sim Racing World Championship McLaren Shadow Driver Wilson Hughes, and Caledonia Gladiators player Oscar Baldwin tested out the kit before its launch.

The new 3,600 square feet facility represents a £500,000 investment and incorporates 10 professional grade racing simulators, each equipped with a racing seat, steering wheel, pedals, and a 43” monitor.

Set to create job opportunities locally, the simulator was designed in collaboration with architects Holmes Miller.

The top-quality simulators allow gaming lovers of all ages to enjoy a highly realistic motor racing experience, from driving practice circuits to competing in Grand Prix-inspired races, besides providing a bar and relaxed post-race atmosphere.

The simulators use the only haptic system licensed by the FIA, the governing body of worldwide motorsports.

This system uses a virtual reality headset technology, used by Boeing and Volvo.

The centre's creation is inspired by former British and Scottish Championship karting winner Ben Lambie.

Ben, director of GP Racing Simulators, said: “It was great to welcome friends, family and icons from the esports racing community to our test event and now be able to officially open the doors to the general public.

“We’ve collaborated with world-class experts in the industry to build GP Racing Simulators which I believe offers an unrivalled motorsport experience here in Scotland.

"I’m proud of what we’ve created and look forward to what the future holds for us here at Playsport.”

GP Racing Simulators will operate from 12pm Wednesday to Friday, and 10am on the weekends.

Prices start from £18 for a 20-minute session with no booking necessary.

For more information or to book, follow @gpracingsimulators across social media and visit www.gpsims.co.uk.