Chester Racecourse saddles up for £20m transformation

Two buildings totaling 80,000 sq ft and aimed at enhancing the venue’s visitor experience have been approved by the local council.

Chester Race Company has secured consent for a 25,000 sq ft hospitality building that will include a roof terrace for 1,000 spectators.

It will replace the current tented village on the course, providing guests with upgraded facilities on race day.

As well as providing space for fans for horseracing, the scheme could also be used for conferences, filling a gap in the market.

The second building, the 30,000 sq ft facilities hub, will be located off Saddlery Way and provide 7,500 q ft of offices and a 10,000 sq ft stables lodge.

There would also be 7,500 sq ft for Chester Race Company’s catering company Horseradish and 5,000 sq ft for maintenance.

Together, the two buildings will cost £20m to deliver.

The hospitality building was designed by Kay Elliott Architects and Chester-based Lovelock Mitchell Architects has crafted the facilities hub.

Louise Stewart, chief executive of Chester Race Company, said: “We’re thrilled that planning permission has been granted for this transformational project. This marks a major milestone in our long-term vision for Chester Racecourse that will benefit the city. The developments will deliver first-class facilities, modern infrastructure, and sustainable design, ensuring the racecourse continues to thrive.

“Thank you to our design and project partners for their dedication, expertise and passion for this project throughout this process.”

The developments have been shaped by an experienced professional team, including Ramboll, Thornton Firkin, Ridge & Partners, Fenix Heritage, Kingdom Ecology, Axis, GroundSolve, and Clayton Property make up the project team.