MULTIMILLION pound development plans for a racecourse have been revealed.

Arena Racing Company (ARC) has revealed plans the scheme for High Gosforth Park and Newcastle Racecourse.

Following on from previous development work, which included the installation of the Tapeta surface and enhanced racing facilities, ARC anticipate submitting plans for the next stage of development of the High Gosforth Estate to Newcastle City Council this Autumn.

The company said the proposals "will further boost the international prestige of the racecourse, create new jobs in hospitality, tourism and construction, and draw thousands of visitors and their spending into the City".

Improvements across the racecourse estate will include a 3,500m2 events centre, alongside a refurbishment of the public and hospitality areas as well as the racing staff accommodation.

The plans for High Gosforth Park also include the development of residential accommodation, along with refurbishment to the listed Brandling House and the associated public space. No development is proposed on Gosforth Park Nature Reserve or on the Scout camp area.

A public consultation has been launched on the plans, with residents invited to submit their views.

Newcastle Racecourse will host a public exhibition and drop-in session before racing on August 31 between 12:noon and 4pm.

David Williamson, executive director of Newcastle Racecourse, said: “Our plans will complete the transformation of Newcastle Racecourse into a world class sporting venue. The development of the racecourse and the wider High Gosforth Park Estate will provide a significant boost to Newcastle’s local economy and help create a number of jobs.

“These plans will completely transform the customer experience here at Newcastle, with brand new facilities for racegoers including bars, restaurants and hospitality suites alongside significant upgrades for owners and trainers as well as the accommodation for racing staff. We very much look forward to hearing people’s views on the plans, and welcome feedback at the exhibition on August. 31 We look forward to introducing the public to our plans and hearing their views.”

The plans will also be available to view at newcastle-racecourse.co.uk/our-racecourse/development from August 31. The consultation will close at 5pm on September 14.