Latest building phase at Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium complete ahead of autumn launch
Progress to develop the UK’s newest greyhound racing track at Dunstall Park has passed its latest phase, with a first-of-its-kind water attenuation tank and drainage system installed.
Latest building phase at Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium complete ahead of autumn launch
Progress to develop the UK’s newest greyhound racing track at Dunstall Park has passed its latest phase, with a first-of-its-kind water attenuation tank and drainage system installed.
Positioned on the inside of Wolverhampton Racecourse, Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium will be the first track to open in a decade and will operate under the management of Arena Racing Company – the UK’s largest racecourse group.
Ground was broken on the new facility in May ahead of a planned autumn launch, with welfare and sustainability front and centre of each phase of the development.
A water attenuation tank capable of recycling 750,000 litres of waste water and rainfall at any given time is now functional, plus the track’s main drainage system. A border to define the track’s inside line has also been formed with work to establish bases beneath the running surface and outside the track’s interior due to be complete by the end of the month.
The track’s 116-capacity kennel facility complete with air conditioning, heating, air ventilation, a vet’s room, x-ray facilities and interior washdown space is expected to be ready for GBGB inspection by the end of the month too.
Jason Begg, Managing Director of Albany Track Works, is pleased with progress being made.
He said: “This is a once in a generation opportunity for greyhound racing to establish a new venue which can showcase the sport at its very best".
“By using the very latest technology and data, we are able to deliver the blueprint for a safe and fair racing surface complimented by world-class kennel and veterinary facilities all developed with welfare at heart".
“We’re really pleased with progress made through spring and, pending no unforeseen delays, remain hopeful of delivering a fully operational site by the conclusion of summer for trialling ahead of opening night".
“We have no doubt that Dunstall Park will bring fresh energy to greyhound racing and provide locals and visitors to Wolverhampton with a fun, cost-friendly, night out.”
Work on the new track is being conducted with support from the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) with race distances set as 270m, 480m, 660m, 715m and 925m.
The track will feature 75m straights with a bend radius of 47m and surface width of 5.6m.
Once open, Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium will host four weekly fixtures – including Wednesday and Friday nights, plus Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons.
Further information about Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium is available online via www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk.
