The UK's first new racecourse for 75 years being planned at Great Leighs is to be powered by the sun.

Some £295,700 of Government money has been granted for a renewable energy project at the £40 million scheme on the former Essex County Showground site.

It will go towards the installation of solar panels on the glass canopy of the main stand.

Not only will the new racecourse be powered by renewable energy, but rainwater collected from the roof will be used for water flushing and energy efficient lighting will be installed.

Site owner and promoter John Holmes said: "This is a hi-tech building. Its permanent media centre and sports betting hall will embrace cutting edge communications and IT, and so our energy requirements will exceed those associated with traditional racecourses."

Published Wednesday December 17, 2003

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