One final hurdle is all that stands in the way of the UK's first new racecourse in 75 years being established in mid Essex.

The £40million project to turn the Essex County Showground in Great Leighs into the landmark development is waiting on final licence approval.

A decision by the British Horseracing Board on the new racecourse was expected at Tuesday's racing industry governing body board meeting.

It was deferred because extra information is required before the board grants a licence for the course.

Discussions with the ground's owners Great Leighs Racing Ltd were said to be ongoing.

Almost 400 jobs are set to be created if the project goes ahead and Great Leighs Racing Ltd are remaining optimistic.

The scheme includes a 7,000 capacity grandstand, permanent television studios, a turf track and an all weather track.

Published Friday, June 13, 2003

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