Beverley Racecourse has submitted a revised planning application for comprehensive refurbishment of the venue’s grandstand. This application supersedes previous plans to demolish and replace the main stand.

The proposals put forward to East Riding of Yorkshire Council follow re-consideration of options for redevelopment of the grandstand, following an in-depth review of the existing structure and its lifespan.

Under the plans, the bulk and footprint of the grandstand would be unchanged, but an exciting new facility will be created on a new second level that will provide an alfresco dining venue, alongside remodelling of the existing popular Rapid Lad Bar, which will increase in size. In addition, a new entrance will ensure a smoother arrival at the racecourse and the stand will become fully accessible with lifts to all floors. A new commentator’s box would also be added within the grandstand.

Chief Executive Sally Iggulden said: “As part of preparatory work for this development we conducted a thorough review and analysis of the structure of the grandstand. That found that the steelwork had many years of further life.

“We’re extremely conscious of operating in a sustainable way in everything we do, so we felt we should think again and consider whether demolition was necessary to achieve the improvements we need and our customers deserve.

“We have also considered the impact of the Government’s decision to bring forward a reduction in Fixed Odds Betting Terminal stakes, which has affected funding for the racing industry and caused us to be more conservative in our budgeting going forward. Clearly, refurbishment will be less costly than demolition and a complete rebuild.

“Taking these issues fully into account, we concluded remodelling the grandstand was the best way forward. We are now proposing a complete refurbishment of the grandstand, including the addition of high-quality new facilities. The redevelopment will ensure a new, high-quality grandstand experience for racegoers and visitors to the racecourse for other events. The revised proposals will also involve no disruption to racing and no need for temporary facilities, as previously proposed.

“Pending planning permission, we intend to begin the first phase of the redevelopment in September, at the end of the racing season, with the work due to be completed by April 2021.”