Racecourse revamp aims to beat 2027 deadline

Changes to the weighing room at Kelso need to be made before the end of 2027

Plans have been lodged for the overhaul of a Borders racecourse to meet new British Horseracing Authority (BHA) guidelines.

A planning application has been submitted to Scottish Borders Council for the provision of new jockeys' weighing room facilities and event space at Kelso Racecourse.

It would relocate the existing jockeys' facilities from the grandstand to a purpose-built building next to the parade ring while "retaining and enhancing" some catering provision.

The racecourse has been given until the end of 2027 to complete the upgrades needed to comply with BHA requirements.

Kelso is one of five racecourses in Scotland and is one of the foremost jump tracks in Britain. It stages about 15 fixtures each season including Morebattle Hurdle Day, which features Scotland's most valuable hurdle race.

The course attracts about 35,000 visitors a year.

The new weighing room would meet requirements to "ensure appropriate safeguarding for participants and equal access to facilities for jockeys of all genders".

A report submitted with the application from CSY Architects, said the proposed development "aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance the experience for race participants and visitors, and provide flexible event space to support the ongoing use of the racecourse."

It said public access to all areas of the racecourse would be unaffected.

"The proposed development represents a carefully considered, high-quality solution that addresses the operational and experiential requirements of Kelso Racecourse while respecting its unique setting and heritage value," it added.

Reporting by local democracy journalist Paul Kelly.