The official green light has been given for the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit to be totally resurfaced in December 2012, at a cost of around $3 million.

The 4.445km layout last resurfaced in 1998, and since then has hosted a huge number of local and international motor racing events, including MotoGP, World Superbikes and V8 Supercars, as well as a full calendar of mid week activity.

In recent years some bumps have appeared especially in some high speed braking areas.

That’s prompted the circuit owner, Linfox, to commit capital funds for the resurfacing which will begin on December 3 and continue right through until Christmas.

Circuit managing director, Fergus Cameron, confirmed the December 2012 start date today and said the investment was essential to ensure the track met world class racing and safety standards.

Surveying technology used to resurface the Mugello and Imola circuits in Italy will be utilised at Phillip Island, with the work performed by Victorian contractors as well as Phillip Island Operations in-house resources. There will be no significant change to the shape of the track.

The first event after the resurfacing will be the 2012 International Island Classic from January 25-27, followed by an intensive February schedule of testing for MotoGP and World Superbike.

The first world championship event will be the opening round of the 2013 Superbike World Championship, slated for late February, 2013.