Work to build new multi-million pound Wolverhampton greyhound track reaches next stage
Drainage systems for Wolverhampton's new multi-million pound greyhound track have been installed as construction work continues.
The work is for the latest phase of the state-of-the-art facility which is being built at Wolverhampton Racecourse, Dunstall Park, and features a water attenuation tank capable of recycling 164,977 gallons of waste water and rainfall at any given time.
Racecourse owner Arena Racing Company said the tank is now functional alongside the track’s main drainage system, a border for the track's inside line is marked out, meanwhile work to fit bases beneath the running surface and outside the track’s interior due to be complete within weeks.
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 inspection by Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) also by the end of this month.
The construction is being carried out by Albany Track Works and its managing director Jason Begg said he is pleased with the progress being made at the greyhound stadium which is the first track to open in a decade.
“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,” Mr Begg said.
The action will see the dogs racing distances of 270m, 480m, 660m, 715m and 925m.
The development follows the closure of the Perry Barr greyhound track in Birmingham to make way for the removal of the fly-over ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games. When the new sport attraction opens in the autumn it is expected to host four weekly fixtures on Wednesday and Friday nights plus Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons.
Racing fans travel from as far afield as Merseyside to attend race meetings in the West Midlands region.
Monmore Green Stadium, in Sutherland Avenue, Monmore Green, also hosts greyhound racing.
