Racing: Fairyhouse Racecourse in Co Meath is set for a multi-million euro facelift, it emerged today. The home of the Irish Grand National is improving access for racegoers as well as revamping overall facilities.
A new main entrance onto the R155 route will be built and internal roadways, carparks and re-configured turnstiles are also planned.
"In addition to administering this project, an integrated design team will be requested to demonstrate a capability to prepare a Master Plan concept for the development of the overall racecourse facilities," a Fairyhouse spokesperson said.
The Rataoth venue, which is 160 years old this year, opened two refurbished stands in 1999. The racecourse hosts up to 20 meetings attended by up to 75,000 each year.
Racing greats that have run at the two-mile track over past decades include Arkle, Desert Orchid, L'escargot, Istabraq, Bobbyjo, Florida Pearl and Limestone Lad.