Aintree plans receive extra help
A massive redevelopment scheme set to transform Aintree racecourse has been given a major boost by the announcement of a £4.7m (€6.9m) contribution from the Northwest Regional Development Agency.
The £35m (€51.6m) project, which culminates in an equestrian centre of international standards, a parade ring and two new grandstands, is the first big renovation of the course for over 100 years.
The parade ring, winner’s and unsaddling enclosures, will be relocated to a more central location and will include a new weighing room and stable complex.
The two new permanent grandstands will replace and enhance the temporary facilities currently used during the John Smith’s Grand National – one of the region’s major tourist attractions.
Overall, the improved facilities are expected to attract an additional 11,200 visitors to the region every year.
Steven Broomhead, NWDA chief executive, said: “Aintree racecourse is one of the Northwest’s major tourism assets, attracting 200,000 visitors to the region every year.
“The new facilities will significantly improve the racegoers’ experience, enhancing the existing tourism offer.”
Charles Barnett, Aintree’s managing director, added: “The John Smith’s Grand National is broadcast to over 600 million people worldwide and is an ideal platform on which to showcase Aintree and England’s Northwest to the rest of the world.
“We believe this new development will provide some of the best racecourse facilities in the world, encompassing the fantastic opportunities that lie ahead for the Northwest region.
“In addition to the new grandstand and weighing room complex, the unique equestrian centre will provide a platform for Aintree to develop other world-class equestrian events.”
