HRI announces development grant aid for Bellewstown, Clonmel and Dundalk

Horse Racing Ireland has announced that capital development grants have been approved for Bellewstown, Clonmel and Dundalk.

Under the capital development scheme, racecourses are eligible to apply for funding of different projects, in which the tracks that are successful will receive funding to the tune of 40 per cent of the project.

HRI chief executive Brian Kavanagh said: “HRI is delighted to be announcing approval of these capital development grants as part of its ongoing commitment through the racecourse capital development scheme to improve facilities at Irish racecourses throughout the country.

“The approved projects will provide construction work and local employment, further emphasising the vital role of racecourses as contributors to their local economies.

Clonmel racecourseCredit: Patrick McCann

“Racegoers and those working in the industry will benefit from the enhanced facilities at Bellewstown, Clonmel and Dundalk.”

Clonmel has been granted €300,000 towards the estimated €788,000 cost of a new weigh room building, while the parade ring is set for a minor facelift as well.

The existing weigh room at Clonmel will remain fully in use during the construction phase, which is expected to commence this year.

Grant aid of €152,000 has been approved for Bellewstown, subject to final planning, for a new stable yard consisting of up to 80 permanent stables, with scope for further future expansion.

Bellewstown currently uses temporary stables at its hugely popular fixtures.

Other works at Bellewstown, part of a total planned spend in excess of €380,000, will include a hard standing path between the stands and parade ring and a remodelling of the existing Tote and restaurant buildings. The work is expected to take place after this year’s racing schedule.

Dundalk is planning a new dedicated owners' and trainers' facility and the upgrading of television sets. It has been granted aid of €252,000 towards projects totalling €720,000.

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