The first phase of a multimillion euro redevelopment of the Curragh racecourse has been given the green light by Kildare County Council.
The decision allows for the realignment of approximately one- kilometre length of the regional road, R413, to the north of the existing racecourse, to enable the existing Stand House Hotel to be incorporated into an enlarged enclosure and entrance area.
The decision opens the way for the second phase of the project which will see a state-of-the-art grandstand replace the existing ramshackle tin-roof stand.
The Turf Club is also planning to build new bars, a conference centre and an equestrian museum. The total cost, including realignment of the regional road and the new grandstand, is expected to be €70 million.
The historic "Queen's Room", where Queen Victoria was entertained is to be retained and incorporated into the new development. It is also understood that the Turf Club is consulting Iarn- ród Éireann with a view to reopening the Curragh railway halt.
However, leading horse trainer Dermot Weld had objected to the redevelopment. Mr Weld, who lives and works at Rosewell House adjacent to the site, claimed the redevelopment would affect the "respiratory health and performance ability" of his horses.
The trainer, who operates internationally renowned stables employing 80 staff, also claimed that based on advice from the Irish Equine Centre, the proposed relocation of an adjacent road would "have a significant negative impact" on his horses.
Other landowners as well as environmentalists also lodged objections. They claimed that the development was "contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area".
Objectors have four weeks to to appeal the council's decision to An Bord Pleanála.
Yesterday's decision was welcomed by Pierce Molony, senior steward of the Turf Club, who said the go-ahead would "create an opportunity for a world-class racecourse".
"Plans for the new grandstand are at an advanced stage," he said, and it is hoped that work can begin early in 2006.
Referring to the objections, he said: "We are actively discussing temporary and long-term arrangements with our neighbours so that the project causes the minimum of interference."
Mr Molony said the project was designed so that the racecourse and the Stand House Hotel would not need to stop trading during redevelopment.
The hotel, which is adjacent to the racecourse, was donated by the Aga Khan to the Turf Club last year, while the remaining land required is owned by the Turf Club.
Funding is being drawn from a number of sources. Some €20 million is coming from the Turf Club reserves and additional donations from within the industry. Up to €35 million will come as a grant from Horse Racing Ireland and the balance will be borrowed from banks.
The Curragh attracts up to 30,000 people for events such as the Irish Derby. The new facilities would be able to cater for up to 45,000 racegoers.