Chelmsford seeking approval to host turf races from April

Chelmsford is targeting approval to stage racing on its turf track for the first time on April 1.

The Essex track is fast approaching the final furlong of a scheme to become the first floodlit turf track in Europe, permission for which was first granted nearly five years ago, and is hoping to be licensed to commence racing for the start of the turf Flat season.

The opening of the new facility, which is a mile round and lies inside the Polytrack circuit, has faced many delays due to the variable weather, but did host Wesley Ward’s Royal Ascot team in June.