Racecourse plans romp past the first post

Under the proposals the northern end of York Racecourse will be redeveloped in a move which it is planned will improve facilities for horses, jockeys and racing fans.

Yesterday members of York Council approved the first stage of the scheme which focuses on the relocation of the pre-parade ring and building of new saddling boxes in work which will give racing fans a better view of the equine stars.

William Derby, chief executive and clerk of the course, said: “I am delighted that these plans have been approved as they demonstrate that York wants to keep improving, to offer the best for horses, for horsemen and for fans of the sport.”

There are plans to move the existing northern perimeter wall to create the new equine area. Discussions have been taking place with York Council, which is landlord to the racecourse, about varying the existing lease to provide an extra third of an acre of leased land to carry out the improvements. This will be subject to public talks and separate approvals.

It is envisaged that work will begin on the first stage of the scheme in Winter 2013 and be completed in 2014.

The second stage plans, which include a new weighing room and replacing the multiple canopies outside the Grade II* listed John Carr grandstand with a less intrusive single canopy, will be shortly submitted. Last summer tens of thousands of racing fans thronged to York to see Frankel and it helped persuade bosses investment was needed if it was to continue to attract the big names.