Community invited to Public Consultation on Updated Development Plans
Event dates 4th & 5th November 2024
Chester Race Company is excited to announce the next stage of its public consultation process for the ambitious ‘Strategic Development Plan’ aimed at transforming Chester Racecourse over the next 15 years. The long-term vision, projected to culminate in 2039 with the racecourse's 500th anniversary, marks an essential milestone in preserving and enhancing the world’s oldest operational racecourse.
Following the initial consultation held in July, where approximately 100 attendees provided insightful feedback, Chester Race Company is now ready to present more detailed plans for the first phase of this significant development. The public is invited to attend these follow-up sessions, to be held at the Leverhulme Stand on Monday 4th November and Tuesday 5th November, from 4 pm to 7 pm.
Two key projects in this first phase of development will be unveiled:
- A new hospitality building within the course enclosure, which will replace the current temporary ‘Tented Village’.
- A facilities hub on Saddlery Way, incorporating office space, stable staff accommodation and operational facilities. The hub will bring together Chester Race Company’s diverse departments into one location.
The plans, which are now well-advanced and approaching submission to Cheshire West and Chester Council for planning approval, have been refined based on feedback received in July, demonstrating the Race Company’s commitment to community input in shaping the future of Chester Racecourse.
Louise Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of Chester Race Company, said: “We were incredibly pleased with the response to our initial consultation in July, where the community’s feedback provided essential insights that have influenced both development projects. As we prepare to share the more detailed plans, we look forward to further input from our neighbours, local groups, and the wider community. The consultation process remains crucial as we work towards realising our vision for Chester Racecourse in a way that respects its heritage and secures its future as a world-class venue.”
“With Chester Racecourse on the path to its 500th anniversary, our aim is to create a sustainable, enhanced environment that benefits both our guests and the community. We encourage everyone with an interest in the racecourse and its future to come along and see the latest plans for themselves.”
The upcoming consultations are designed as informal drop-in sessions, and all are welcome. Representatives from Chester Race Company, along with architects and project team members, will be on hand to answer questions and explain the proposals in further detail. Comment sheets will be available for attendees to provide their views, ensuring that all perspectives are heard.
As well as the general public, invitations are being sent to over 300 nearby residents and stakeholders, along with local community groups and organisations with a vested interest in the racecourse’s development.
Chester Race Company encourages everyone interested in the enhancement and future of Chester Racecourse to attend and share their feedback on this pivotal phase of the development plan.
Event Details:
- Dates: Monday 4th November and Tuesday 5th November
- Time: 4pm to 7pm
- Location: Leverhulme Stand, Chester Racecourse