Funding has been approved for a major redevelopment project at Galway Racecourse.

The Board of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has granted €2.1 million towards revamping an enclosure to the North of the parade ring.

In addition, a Tote Ireland building will be demolished and replaced with a new structure incorporating a betting hall and bar/food facilities. The development represents a €6m investment by the racecourse, including all ancillary services and fit out.

Construction of the new two-storey building will begin after the 2017 Galway Summer Festival. Features will include a large, open-plan betting hall with capacity for up to 550 racegoers on the ground floor. Tote Ireland betting counters will be installed on three sides, while a large betting shop will be developed on the fourth side.

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A total of 46 Tote Ireland betting windows will be developed externally, with the majority facing the racetrack and set back to provide weather protection to racegoers.

Other features include a champagne bar with capacity for 450 people and new toilet facilities.

Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Horse Racing Ireland, said: "Galway Racecourse's new development will provide an attractive focal point in the enclosure and an improved level of comfort and shelter for racegoers.

"Removing the existing Tote building will reconfigure a traditionally congested area around the betting ring and parade ring, opening up pedestrian access and improving the enclosure layout."

The new Tote Ireland building is scheduled to be completed and open ahead of the 2018 Galway Summer Festival.

(LM/JP)