Racecourse transforms historic enclosure with £5m investment

York Racecourse has transformed a 100-year-old enclosure after a £5m refurbishment to improve the experience for racegoers and to get more people into the sport.

The Clocktower Enclosure opened at the start of the season in May following the renovation of what was formerly known as the Course Enclosure, located parallel to the final furlong of the track.

The enclosure now features twin canopies, which shelters catering and betting facilities with some cover for racegoers too, located either side of the listed clocktower building. It also has two new toilet blocks, refurbished turnstiles and improved access for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The enclosure was upgraded after nearly a century of use.

Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking supported York Racecourse with a £2m loan to support the redevelopment works.

Chris Ward, head of finance at York Racecourse, said: “By providing a great experience in our relaxed and affordable Clocktower Enclosure, visitors are more likely to develop an interest in the sport and to return and try our finer raceday experiences.

“The renovation has provided some well-deserved TLC to a part of the course that’s been enjoyed by families, first-timers and race aficionados alike for many years. Lloyds Bank has been a fundamental partner in helping us to achieve this.

“The improvements help us to ultimately deliver on our brand promise of a great day out for all, whether it’s for our raceday or live music events.”

Leigh Taylor, regional director for Yorkshire at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “The new enclosure will help York Racecourse to cement its position as a leading global racecourse, and will ultimately work to grow interest in the sport and to safeguard future attendance.”