Development could mean year-round business
City planners in Chelmsford, Essex have granted permission for a racetrack casino in the UK city, according to multiple news reports.
On January 6, city council members blessed the plan for a Betfred casino at the Chelmsford City Racecourse, formerly known as the Great Leighs. The expansion plan also includes a new five-story, 7,000-capacity grandstand with sportsbook, a fitness complex, a conference center and other amenities that will allow the facilities to stay open 365 days a year, reported CalvinAyre.com.
UK bookmaker Betfred holds a majority stake in the existing track, which could be the first of its kind in Europe to offer night racing on a new turf track. The venue also plans to host up to 10 concerts a year.
“This is fantastic news,” said racecourse Chairman Joe Scanlon. “Over the course of the last few years, leading casinos across the world have been changing into multi-purpose complexes offering a full range of facilities to complement their gambling options. Here at Chelmsford, we will be the first to offer a fully integrated racecourse ‘resort’ or leisure destination with entertainment.”
“A leading development like this can only lead to bigger and better support for our racetrack,” said Managing Director Phil Siers. “We look forward to the day we are offering a minimum prize fund of £100,000 per meeting and regular turf and all-weather racing.”
Work on the grandstand and track is expected to start in 2018.
