Major 700000 development planned for fairyhouse
Fairyhouse Racecourse is to undertake major upgrades to its facilities as Capital Development Grants were announced in the second set of approvals under the Horse Racing Ireland Racecourse Capital Development scheme.
Fairyhouse has plans in place for a €700,000 upgrade which has been approved for a HRI Capital Development grant of €280,000. This redevelopment work will provide enhancements for customers and users of the racecourse and support up to 20 construction jobs during the development phase.
A wide range of enhancements are planned for 2015, including stable yard works, kitchen upgrades, a new photo finish box and improved signage at the front entrance. Refurbishments of the Jameson and Powers’ stands are planned for 2016.
Further redevelopments include upgrades to the entrance building and main avenue, along with an extension to the first aid room.
Peter Roe, manager of Fairyhouse Racecourse said: “We’re delighted to have been approved for a Capital Development Grant. The improvements we have planned will really enhance the experience of everyone who comes to the track. We plan to develop our main avenue and entrance building so that we create the right first impression. Some of the projects, such as the stable yard works and the new photo finish box won’t directly affect racegoers but are required to bring the racecourse up to industry standard.”
All 26 Irish racecourses are eligible to apply for funding under this scheme with HRI providing 40 per cent of the cost of approved projects. It is estimated that the entire Racecourse Capital Development Fund will support in the region of 1300 direct and indirect jobs during the course of its completion.
Brian Kavanagh, CEO of HRI: said: “The redevelopments planned at Fairyhouse are focused on improving the facilities for racegoers and for the jockeys, trainers, owners and others who use the racecourses on a regular basis. The Capital Development grants will allow Fairyhouse to deliver customer-facing improvements and industry essential works. The projects will also provide a welcome stimulus to local employment in the building trade. They have made significant progress in recent years and Horse Racing Ireland is happy to support the next phase of their capital development.”