Understand
Chelmsford racecourse could host fixtures with new leaseholder Arena Racing Company
Overview
Horse racing could return to Chelmsford City Racecourse after a multi-year lease was agreed with the Arena Racing Company (ARC). Fixtures have been suspended since March following the administration of the previous tenant, Great Leighs Estates Limited, with debts exceeding £22m. The resumption of racing depends on the British Horseracing Authority granting a licence, with a provisional fixture scheduled for 2 November and five further dates planned for later in the year.
Key points
- Chelmsford City Racecourse has agreed a multi-year lease with the Arena Racing Company (ARC).
- Racing has not taken place at the track since March due to the previous tenant collapsing into administration with over £22m in debt.
- The return of fixtures is subject to the British Horseracing Authority granting a licence.
- A fixture has been pencilled in for 2 November, followed by five further dates in November and December.
- Paul Ellison, executive director of Brighton Racecourse, is set to oversee day-to-day operations at Chelmsford.