Member Article

Warwickshire development and construction firm wins contract to revamp part of iconic horseracing venue

A Midlands-based development and construction company has landed a major contract to revamp a key part of one of the UK’s most iconic horseracing venues.

The Jockey Club, which is the largest commercial horse racing organisation in the UK, has instructed The Wigley Group to begin work on the weighing room complex at Newmarket July Course this autumn.

Works include refurbishing the Head-on Stand and creating a stylish first-floor viewing terrace with stunning views of the racecourse and internal changes to The Weighing Room to upgrade facilities for jockeys.

James Davies, Chief Executive Officer of The Wigley Group, which is based in Southam in Warwickshire, said: “We are delighted to be working again with The Jockey Club and lending our expertise in this area, having previously delivered a corporate hospitality venue and new main entrance at Warwick Racecourse.

“This work will not only modernise facilities at an historic horseracing venue but also provide high-quality facilities for all participating sports professionals. We look forward to commencing work in the autumn.”

As part of the work, The Head-on Stand will receive a new roof and will have parts of its exterior upgraded to blend into the new look of the complex, whilst the traditional thatched roof of The Weighing Room – which overlooks the Winner’s Enclosure – will be retained.

The project will also deliver sustainability improvements for with the installation of solar panels and low energy lighting.

Sophie Able, General Manager of Newmarket Racecourses, said: “We are excited to be undertaking this project which will deliver an improved experience for both participants and racegoers.

“The new complex will give racing professionals and participants the top-class facilities they need as well as enhancing customers’ experience, all whilst maintaining the unique look and feel of The July Course.

“We are looking forward to work beginning in the autumn and finishing the project before racing returns in June 2023, and our thanks go to The Wigley Group, D Stanley Associates and all involved for their continued hard work.”

D Stanley Associates has acted as project manager for The July Course Project since its inception.

David Stanley said: “Having managed the design stages through to the recent award of the main contract, we are thrilled that the project is now moving into construction as programmed.

“This would not have been achieved without the dedication, skill and cooperation of the entire project team: Roberts Limbrick Architects, PMP Cost Consultants, Furness Partnership Structural and Civil Engineers, Ark H&S and Fairhurst Landscape Consultants.

“We are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with The Jockey Club and look forward to delivering this project for them ahead of the 2023 season.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Matt Joyce .