ARC and
Newcastle Racecourse have today launched a wide ranging consultation program to
consider the development of a Floodlit AW track at the popular North East
venue.
It is
hoped that a planning application for the scheme can be lodged by 31st January 2014
and if successful racing on the new surface would commence in 2015.
The
current proposals are based around replacing the existing turf flat track with
an all-weather surface that would incorporate the only floodlit straight mile
in the world.
The existing
turf jumps track would be unaffected, although the Flat race program if run on
the all-weather would increase the scope for an additional number of Jump
fixtures to be staged. The development would still leave the track with an
option to host its principal race, the John Smith's Northumberland Plate on a
turf surface.
The
proposals would also see much needed investment made at the track including a
general upgrading of facilities and a new layout of the pre-parade and saddling
facilities.
This
announcement coincides with the start of a wide ranging consultation period
with local residents, businesses and stakeholders in and around the High
Gosforth area. The track will be hosting a number of meetings where the
proposals will be discussed and explained.
In
addition, the ARC executive will be consulting widely with interested
stakeholders within British Racing, including the BHA with which ARC has had a
number of initial discussions.
David
Williamson, Executive Director at Newcastle Racecourse said: "We are very
excited by these proposals.
"We
want to explain the benefits to the local community and Newcastle Racecourses'
many supporters. We believe that should these plans proceed then they will
enhance Newcastle Racecourse as one of the pre-eminent racing and events venue
in the UK."
Tony
Kelly, Managing Director at ARC, commented: "The development of an
all-weather track in the north has long been an ambition of ours and this
proposal would develop the best floodlit all-weather track in the world given
the superb wide galloping track and our ability to incorporate a floodlit
straight mile.
"We
have recently launched the ARC all-weather championship and that is an initial
but very significant step in the move to improve the competitiveness and
attractiveness of this important area of the sport. The increase in support and
quality we have seen so far is extremely encouraging.
"This
track would fit superbly within the ARC all-weather Championship and would give
us the ability to possibly share finals day with Lingfield Park.
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