THE first phase of a £5 million development of York racecourse has been granted planning permission by City of York Council.

The development of the northern end of the course will make include a relocated pre-parade ring, new saddling boxes, improved vet facilities and a wash-down area.

The next phase of the development, due to be submitted for approval soon, will include a new weighing-room building alongside the new pre-parade ring. The racecourse said the changes will mean better viewing for racegoers and movement for visitors and horses as it will remove the existing crossing points between horses and racegoers.

William Derby, chief executive and clerk of the course said: “I am delighted that these plans have been approved as they demonstrate that York wants to keep improving, to offer the best for horses, for horsemen and for fans of the sport.

“This is just phase one of our vision and I remain excited by the plans for the new weighing room and wider racegoers facilities; the team are close to submitting this aspect of the scheme for planning consideration.

“Wonderful though it was to be able to welcome Frankel, the best racehorse in the world, as well as the 30,000 people intent on seeing him, to York, it did reinforce to me that we can improve things.”