Newbury Racecourse is planning to sell off more land for housing, to build a four-star hotel, and install an equine training school – newbury.net can reveal.

Course managers announced the plans today, and also said that work will begin on an all-weather track next Spring.

The move is expected to increase the 12 meetings to around 30 a year, and will boost revenue. Last year, the racecourse reported £6m profits on £15m turnover.

Managing director Mark Kershaw said the plans had come from a review of the 320-acre site, and will be submitted to West Berkshire Council for decision next spring, after consultation with neighbours.

He said: “We are committed to the continued development of our racing product. The all-weather-track will add an entirely new dimension to racing in this region, and complement the industry's drive towards raising the quality and perception of all-weather racing.

“The Board is determined that Newbury Racecourse should be recognised as a valuable local asset which brings economic advantages to the town - and one in which the local community can take pride.”

Further details of the exciting plans for Newbury Racecourse are available from the Racecourse website. Please follow this link