 Both all-weather tracks could be completed by 2005 |
A scheme to build two new all-weather racetracks in Newmarket and Kempton - costing a total of �14m - has been unveiled. The Racecourse Holdings Trust (RHT) hopes both tracks can be completed by 2005.
At Newmarket in Suffolk the plans are for a �4m one-mile course will run next to the Rowley Mile course.
If the proposals are approved by Forest Heath District Council, the track will also be used to exercise horses.
'All-weather is important'
The scheme for Kempton in Shropshire would allow the course to keep national hunt racing, including the King George VI steeplechase, with all-weather racing replacing the current fixtures.
About �10m will be invested in an oval all-weather track and the upgrading of the steeplechase and hurdle courses.
Existing grandstands will be retained as part of the plan.
David James, chairman of the Racecourse Holdings Trust, said: "We believe all-weather racing is strategically important.
 An all weather surface at Kempton and Newmarket will enable the courses to compete for extra fixtures  Richard Johnston, managing director of RHT |
"Top class tracks at Kempton and Newmarket will enhance the quality of our overall racing."
Richard Johnston, managing director of RHT added: "We aim to play a role in helping to improve and upgrade all weather racing and any success we have will benefit the industry, for all our profits are reinvested in racing.
"An all weather surface at Kempton and Newmarket will enable the courses to compete for extra fixtures."
Newmarket and Kempton will now begin a round of detailed consultation before submitting final plans.
It is intended to apply for planning permission later this year after final consultations have been completed.
Provide more training
At Newmarket, an all-weather track would save wear and tear of the turf as horses currently canter to the Rowley Mile start on the turf course.
Newmarket would therefore have the scope to run more turf fixtures.
The all-weather surface would also allow Newmarket to offer an additional training facility and stalls trials.
Newmarket will be working closely with Jockey Club Estates, which operates training grounds in the town.
Michael Prosser, Newmarket Racecourse's clerk of the course, said the council and English Nature would be fully consulted because of the site's ecological importance.
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