New plans announced for extensive re-modelling of Newbury Racecourse
Artist's impression of the new parade ring areaNewbury racecourse has announced an ambitious programme of upgrades to its racing facilities and infrastructure. This follows - and is part paid for - by the housing developments round the perimeter of the course.
200 new homes on the site are already occupied - the next phase will include 360 new apartments. Sale of the land for this housing has enabled infrastructure work to begin.
A new entrance from the north by a new bridge over the railway and the new car park are nearing completion. The bridge is expected to open in time for November's three-day bet365 Festival meeting that includes the Hennessy Gold Cup.
Newbury Racecourse stands - from the racecourse sideNow Newbury racecourse has put in planning applications for a further scheme of works in two phases - with a total estimated cost of £20million.
The first phase would start in January with the re-modelling of the parade ring area, new entrances and re-siting of other buildings around the ring.
Phase two would major on the refurbishment of the central Berkshire Stand and the Pall Mall building. This phase will be reviewed in 2018 when likely financial returns from the investment will be clearer.
Outline planning permission for a 120 bedroom 4-star hotel is still valid, but there are no immediate plans to proceed with this part of the project.