Setback for racecourse

[Neal]

PLANS for the £100m. racecourse to be built on land between Simonstone and Altham have hit a setback.

Developers had earmarked £4m. to carry out a feasibility study into the area with a number of investors putting money into the project.

However, just four days before everything was to be signed, one of the investors died suddenly, leaving the plans up in the air.

Mr Rennie Pinder, chairman of Altham Parish Council, said: "It hasn't been thrown into chaos, but it's definitely a hiccup. The developers cannot do anything until the family sort out what is happening with the investor's estate. It is thought they are looking for other investors who may be interested.

"The feasibility study will look at the impact on the environment and roads and it is only until after that takes place that we will look at making a final decision."

At a meeting of Read Parish Council it was reported the company proposing to build the racecourse was in the final stages of completing its initial funding package and an outline planning application was expected to be submitted around July.

It is believed the racecourse will be sited on land near the now demolished Mullards "glass factory". Advanced technology will be used to create an all-weather grass surface, enabling the consortium to guarantee up to 60 days of racing a year.

A five-star hotel, leisure facilities, an associated retail development, stabling and an equestrian training centre are also planned.

http://www.burnleyexpress.net/burnle...rse.3433601.jp