2 September 2015 – The Times
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One of the most stylish cities in Britain will finally have the racecourse it deserves, under plans to be announced today. Far from closing down the track at Bath, one of many rumours in recent months, its owners Arena Leisure Company (ARC) will transform it with a “multi-million pound redevelopment” due for completion next autumn.
Under plans lodged with Bath & North East Somerset Council, ARC will construct a new stand, with a viewing restaurant and a covered rooftop terrace overlooking the final furlong of the hilltop course in Lansdown. Additionally, the existing hospitality stand will be rebuilt and a café and bistro will be added to the previously lamentable facilities.
Martin Cruddace, who began his role as ARC chief executive a fortnight ago, described the scheme yesterday as “a very significant undertaking which will benefit both the racing industry and the local community.” Provided the plans are accepted, ARC intends to begin the work this winter. Landscaping and catering facilities would then be complete next spring, with the new stand following in late 2016.
It is envisaged that racing would continue at Bath throughout the development. Susannah Gill, director of external affairs at ARC, is pleased to put an end to idle gossip. “We are not planning to shut any more courses and I hope this will help get that message across,” she said. “Bath is such an aspirational place and nobody could argue the racecourse quite fitted that image. This is an exciting project that will create a great sporting and leisure facility.”