Ayr Racecourse has submitted plans for an upgrade to its weighing room and jockeys’ facilities, with the proposed work aimed at meeting current safety requirements set out by the British Horseracing Authority.
The planning documents were submitted through agent LMA Architects. They set out proposals to extend and alter the existing facilities at the racecourse, which are used to support jockeys before and after racing.
Facilities included in the plans
The supporting statement says the facility provides medical and physiotherapy services for riders. It also supports pre-race fitness checks and immediate emergency response from specialised medical staff.
“The facility houses medical and physiotherapy facilities to support rider safety, pre-race fitness checks, and immediate emergency response by specialised medical staff. "Both male and female changing facilities, showers, toilets etc. are provided, along with a rest area and servery.”
The proposals include male and female changing areas, showers, toilets, a rest area and a servery. The plans also show storage space, disabled toilets and facilities for under-18s.
Planning decision still to come
The application is currently being considered by South Ayrshire Council planning officers. A decision is due in the coming months, meaning the proposed changes have not yet been approved.
The plans relate directly to Ayr Racecourse’s jockeys’ and weighing-room facilities, rather than announcing a change to the racecourse’s wider racing programme. The application’s stated purpose is to bring the facilities in line with the regulator’s current requirements and recommendations.