Chelmsford future in the balance after appeal is dismissed

The future of racing at Chelmsford remains in doubt after an appeal by the racecourse’s intended new operating company against the decision of the British Horseracing Authority not to grant it a licence was dismissed.

It was announced in April that three fixtures at Chelmsford, including the Essex track’s Good Friday fixture, had been cancelled after the BHA refused to grant a licence to Golden Mile Racing Limited.

The new company was formed after the previous licence holder, Great Leighs Estates Limited, was placed in administration.

A spokesperson for the BHA said on Friday: “We acknowledge the decision announced by the Licensing Committee today to dismiss the appeal by Golden Mile Racing Limited against the BHA’s decision to refuse it a licence to operate Chelmsford City Racecourse.

“We note the committee’s finding that it was the applicant’s responsibility to satisfy the committee that a licence should be granted and that the material provided, including late and insufficiently detailed evidence, failed to do that.

“We also acknowledge the committee’s finding that the BHA executive and board had been ‘misled as to the likelihood of an administration by John Holmes and that Great Leighs Estates Limited (GLEL) had not been frank about its indebtedness’.

“Chelmsford City Racecourse’s 12 racecourse fixtures remain with GLEL’s administrator and may be sold or transferred to a licensed racecourse operator, with the consent of the BHA.

“The BHA’s racing department will continue to work with the National Trainers Federation, trainers, owners and other stakeholders to provide sufficient opportunities for horses within the race programme.

“With due regard to the committee’s decision-making process, we will carefully consider the full written reasons when they are published in due course before making a more substantive comment.”