A well-known racecourse in Ireland has been granted approximately £3.3m towards a £14.2m redevelopment.

Work on the next phase of Leopardstown’s renovation is set to start early in the New Year after the track received the grant from Horse Racing Ireland’s (HRI) Capital Development Fund.

The redevelopment will include new betting and entertainment areas for racegoers, a new saddling area and a new weighing room building, which will include modernised facilities for jockeys, stewards, officials, medical staff and media.

Pat Keogh, CEO of Leopardstown, said: "We're delighted to have received support from the HRI Capital Development Scheme.
“Our vision is to create a facility in Leopardstown that will showcase the best that Irish racing has to offer.”

The course has already undergone its first phase of modernisation which includes a new Champions Bar, a restaurant and an owners’ and trainers’ lounge.

It will be completed in time for the famous four-day Christmas meeting which begins on 26th December.

"The international interest in this year's Longines Irish Champions Weekend shows the potential of the sport,” Pat added.

“When we complete the development being announced today, we will have a facility in Dublin that will compare very favourably with the best national and international sports venues."