05 June 2016 – Doncaster Free Press
A new luxury Hilton hotel and apartment complex at Doncaster Racecourse is on the cards after Mayor Ros Jones and her cabinet approved the development in principle a few moments ago.
The multi-million pound scheme by the Doncaster Racecourse Management Company will, subject to the necessary planning and business approvals, see a 150 bedroom Hilton hotel built overlooking Doncaster’s acclaimed racecourse. The quality development will also include up to 80 high end residential apartments. It it estimated that the scheme will generate about 600 temporary jobs will be created during construction, as well as around 140 new permanent positions when the development is completed and open.
Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said: “This planned development will bring an internationally renowned hotel brand in Hilton to Doncaster and additional upmarket homes. “This prestigious scheme will help the racecourse’s growth plans and cement its position as one of the world’s premier racetracks. “It will deliver further new jobs and growth and complement projects at Belle Vue, the former Doncaster Bloodstock Sales site and plans for a European Tour backed golf course complex at Rossington Hall. These are exciting times for Doncaster.”
It is predicted to generate over £3million annually to the local economy and enhance the available conference and hotel facilities. It is estimated that Doncaster Council will receive up to £370,000 of additional income from business rates, council tax and ground rent. Plans for a hotel and an apartment complex at Doncaster Racecourse were initially put into motion in 2008, but were halted in the same year because the scheme failed to attract a developer.
Stephen Higgins, Director of Property and Racing for Arena Racing Company (“ARC”) said: “Following today’s meeting we are pleased we can continue to work with Doncaster Council, as shareholders in Doncaster Racecourse, to progress the plans for a Hilton Hotel and apartment development on the west side of the racecourse, which will ensure further improvements to racing facilities, including a 600 seat restaurant and viewing terrace. “The planning application relating to the project will be made in the coming weeks and we hope the facility can make a lasting contribution to the town.” Subject to necessary approvals work could start by the end of the year. The development will be located at the western end of the racecourse close to the A18/A638 roundabout.
Doncaster Racecourse is home of the St Leger, and is considered to be one of the borough’s most treasured assets. As well as being home to the oldest classic horse race in the world, it also saw the start of regulated horseracing when the Doncaster Cup was first ran in 1766. The racecourse is also set celebrate its 250th anniversary this year.