Issue - meetings

To present a proposal from The Jockey Club to re-route the path across the 6 furlongs start chute on Walton Downs.

The Conservators received a proposal from The Jockey Club to re-route the path across the 6 furlongs start chute on Walton Downs.

The following matters were considered:

a)            Completion of Works. A Member of the Conservators asked if there was anything that could be done or pressure that could be applied to ensure that the works are completed ahead of the 2026 Derby Festival. Andrew Cooper informed the Conservators that the works will cost roughly £15k and the Jockey Club are currently in the midst of a budgetary process which will hopefully conclude soon and confirm that the relevant funds are available to have the works completed ahead of the 2026 Derby Festival. He confirmed that they are hopeful and committed to the works being completed prior to the Derby.

b)            Longevity of solution. A Member of the Conservators queried if the solution proposed will be a long-term or permanent solution. Andrew Cooper confirmed that it is planned to be a permanent and long-lasting solution to the situation. He raised that there will be ongoing maintenance which will be covered.

c)            Communications. The Chair highlighted the importance of communicating the works and change to members and invited representatives of the Consultative Committee and other users of the downs. The Chair informed Conservators that this item has been through the Training Grounds Management Board already.

d)            Aesthetics. A Member of the Conservators raised that the aesthetics of the Downs is important, and the proposed works will be a positive change. Andrew Cooper confirmed that the shoot will look tidier when it is properly railed off.

e)            Epsom Racecourse. The Vice Chair stated that the visual and physical improvements are paramount to raising the status and reputation of Epsom Racecourse. He explained it is an important feature of the racecourse that the Jockey Club would like to improve on, alongside other areas in the coming years.

Following consideration, the Conservators unanimously resolved to:

(1)      Approve the permanent closure of the existing path/horse-walk across the 6 furlongs start chute and create a new rerouted path to the rear of the start chute as detailed in Appendix 1.