Tramore Racecourse in Co. Waterford is on course for a major facelift following approval by the board of Horse Racing Ireland to grant 40% of an estimated €1m capital expenditure plan. This grant aid of over €400,000 will enable the racecourse to carry out significant development of the current facilities for racegoers, horses and professionals, over the next four years.
From a racegoer perspective, the main area of investment will be a spacious new entrance building, which will be the sole access point to the racecourse. The building will house the racecourse administration offices and will be wi-fi enabled to facilitate a future e-ticketing system which will ultimately lead to a more efficient entry process. Plans are also afoot to refurbish the parade ring area which will include a ringside seating terrace which will be recessed to create an amphitheatre-like atmosphere. The middle grandstand will also be upgraded and the existing steps will be replaced.
The jockey's room, press room and owners and trainers facilities will be upgraded and extended, while the stable-yard will undergo a major facelift, with the existing 20 wooden stable boxes to be replaced with 30 new ones, increasing the total capacity to 78 on completion. New toilet and canteen facilities will also be provided for stable staff. Brian Kavanagh, CEO of HRI commented, “Visitors to Tramore Racecourse, both racegoers and industry professionals, will really see the benefits of the significant improvements planned and we are happy to provide grant aid to facilitate these worthwhile projects. Tramore is a very popular, well-run racetrack and it is great to see them committed to improving facilities for all concerned.” Sue Phelan, Tramore racecourse manager added, “We are very excited about the redevelopment works and believe that they will make a huge difference to our customers and those in the industry. The extended parade ring will be the focal point of the racecourse, framed by extra terraced seating and the enhanced weigh room building.”
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