A few thoughts about circuits; if everyone played the` game`correctly,you should be able to have 4 a/c of similar characteristics( speed d/w, and on app/t/o) operating comfortably;ie 1 on t/o, 1 upwind, 1 d/w, 1 base/finals( 5 at a push with 1 just d/w and another `about` base turn); any more, and it gets too complex.IF, everyone pays attention with ears and eyes they should be able to circulate in a responsible manner. The rule is; if you are catching the a/c ahead you must only extend `Upwind`to make spacing, never d/wind. You should use timing from abeam your threshold( inset or normal) of 15 secs +- 1sec/5kts head/tail wind component and then turn base / or, never further than 4/8 o`clock position(right/left circuits).
Where is this `golden ` rule that says you must turn x-wind at 500` ? Why not climb ahead to 700` before turning ? It will allow one to turn, level off and then turn d/w in a proper position,without having to climb when d/w..
Most light a/c that I have airtested for CAA CofA renewals are woefully lacking in climb performance against the Flight Manual,and if you start turning at `500`ft, then you lose a lot of ground before reaching 1000`, thus extending/widening the circuit. TRY IT AND SEE........Syc.