Curragh proposal approved

KILDARE County Council have given the go-ahead to a proposed realignment of a section of motorway near the Curragh racecourse.

The decision means the track can now proceed with a planned 70m redevelopment scheme, which includes building a new grandstand on the site of the existing R413 road.

Planning permission has also been granted for a new 70-bedroom hotel, while the Irish Turf Club now intends to submit plans for the new grandstand.

“Plans are at an advanced stage,” said Turf Club senior steward Pierce Molony.

“We hope to commence work early in 2006 and we are actively discussing temporary and long-term arrangements with our neighbours so that the project causes the minimum of inference.”

The entire project will be funded by money from the Turf Club, a grant from Horse Racing Ireland and bank loans.