Taunton, which opened in 1927, was the last new British racecourse

The Essex track, which is the first new course in Britain for over 80 years and will feature a floodlit track, was initially due to open in October 2006.

An opening meeting had been scheduled for 24 February but that has now been delayed after a visit from British Horseracing Authority (BHA) inspectors. Officials are now hoping to stage their first meeting on Tuesday 18 March.

Great Leighs' seven fixtures between 23 February and 13 March have been returned to the BHA.

BHA communications manager Will Lambe said: "We are certainly nearing the finishing line, but our inspectorate was unable to sign off the track and key integrity facilities following its visit to Great Leighs on Friday.

"Progress continues to be made, and rather than stick rigidly to a monthly schedule, the next formal inspection will take place on Monday 21 January with a view to Great Leighs' first fixture hopefully taking place on 18 March.

"The completion of the laying of the Polytrack surface and installation of some of the necessary integrity facilities are among the outstanding issues."