Multi-million pound upgrade planned for historic racecourse
A £5m scheme has been submitted to redevelop York Racecourse, with proposals including extra seating, bars, betting facilities and food stands.
If approved, the project would see the section south of the Knavesmire Stand upgraded.
Also, two new lawns under a high canopy would be created and the 1913 Bustardthorpe Stand would be improved.
The application lodged with City of York Council, says a single-storey extension behind the Bustardthorpe Stand would be replaced with a new building, upgrading the area’s toilets and refurbishing the entrance.
It aims to improve the area for visitors and staff rather than increase attendance.
A planning statement accompanying the application explains the scheme will help elevate the racecourse to “world class” quality.
It adds: “The proposed development provides a design which is sympathetic with its surroundings, while incorporating design which is modern and creates a sense of place.
“Renovated buildings will pick up of the styles of York Racecourse without compromising the authenticity of the original buildings.
“By redeveloping the current site, the proposal does not infringe on additional land within the surrounding Green Belt and open space.
“This approach favours adaptation of existing buildings to fit to the operational demands of York Racecourse, rather than completely replacing buildings.”
York Racecourse is one of the oldest racecourses in the world with racing first starting on the Knavesmire in 1731.
Visitor numbers to York Racecourse of over 300,000 over 18 race days help support an economic impact of £58m per annum, which the racecourse’s owners say equates to 1,300 full time equivalent jobs.
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