Cheltenham Racecourse is set to reopen on Friday after a major revamp aimed at improving the track’s drainage.
Three fixtures due to take place in April and May were cancelled so the work could go ahead. The course had been affected by a wet winter, which caused problems on the track.
The biggest single job was the upgrade of a 600-metre (1,968ft) drain, which started in April. Some bars and undercover areas were also redeveloped.
Jon Pullin, the clerk of the course, said the track “is looking in good shape despite the challenging summer”. He said the team had worked closely with specialists on decisions for the long-term management of the track, and that the project was larger than the course would normally take on during the summer break. “It has given us the opportunity to upgrade the drainage system ready for a new season,” he said.
Guy Lavender, the racecourse’s chief executive, said earlier that the investment followed the wet winter. He said upgrades had also been made to improve the experience for racegoers ahead of the November meeting. “We’ve refurbished the bars and put a lot of investment into the facilities and the grandstand,” he said, adding that it is now easier to get a drink and find undercover space.
Lavender said the best part of the finished work was “having people back here”. He added: “Having everyone back in and seeing the horses come into the stables the night before is really exciting.”
