Chester unveils plans for new main entrance

Chester has released an artist's impression detailing proposed plans to revamp the main entrance to the course in time for the start of the track's season in May.

Work is already under way on the new-look approach, with planning permission sought for the demolition of the Watergate Inn, which the course acquired in 2016, and pedestrianisation of Watergate Square.

The upgrades include a canopied entrance into the County Stand, the resiting of the box office and a new bar.

Further developments are in the pipeline, with details to be announced in the coming weeks and a public exhibition of the track's proposals set to be held in the spring.

Chester chief executive Richard Thomas said: "The significant investment in this project demonstrates our commitment to providing an improved welcoming experience to all of our visitors.

"We're excited to soon reveal further detail of our 2018 Masterplan ahead of a public exhibition. This exhibition will be the starting point for a full informative consultation process, involving a range of stakeholders.

"The Masterplan will cover the next stage of our development, ensuring we're able to offer state-of-the-art facilities to the next generation of customers."

The work on the main entrance is scheduled to be completed in time for the track's three-day May meeting. In October, the course announced a new running order for its big fixture, with the 188BET Chester Cup switching to Friday from its traditional Wednesday slot.

The Arkle Finance Cheshire Oaks, won last year by star filly Enable, and the MBNA Chester Vase, in which Derby winner Wings Of Eagles was second, will be run on the opening day.

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