Chelmsford City returns in November

Racing is expected to resume at Chelmsford City on November 2 after Arena Racing Company (Arc) secured a multi-year lease to operate the racecourse. Coverage will also move to Sky Sports Racing.

Subject to BHA licensing approval, the course is set to host six fixtures across November and December. Chelmsford has not staged racing since March, following the administration of its previous licensee, Great Leighs Estates Limited.

Non-racing events have continued at the venue and will also come under Arc’s management as part of the agreement.

Golden Mile Racing Limited had been lined up to take over the course but was refused a licence by the BHA over concerns about the involvement of racecourse owner John Holmes and debts owed to racing-related businesses.

The deal brings Sky Sports Racing back as Chelmsford’s broadcast partner for the first time since 2018. 

Paul Ellison, executive director of Brighton racecourse, will oversee Chelmsford’s day-to-day operations.

Arc operations director Kieran Gallagher said: “We are delighted to confirm the signing of the lease with the freeholders, and that racing will return to Chelmsford City racecourse.

“We are grateful to the BHA for their ongoing support during the process currently under way of relicensing the racecourse and we look forward to getting everything prepared to welcome horses, owners, trainers and racegoers back in November, and starting a new era under the Arc banner.”