Racing at Chelmsford City Racecourse has been abandoned for Thursday (April 2) and Friday (April 3), with further fixtures now in serious doubt, after the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) board decided not to grant a racecourse licence to Golden Mile Racing Limited (GMRL).

The Essex all-weather track, which has faced ongoing financial difficulties, saw its previous licence holder, Great Leighs Estates Limited (GLEL), placed into administration earlier this year. GMRL was established as the new company intended to take over operations at Chelmsford City Racecourse (CCR).

The BHA made a preliminary decision over the weekend not to approve the licence application. GMRL was then given the opportunity — in line with BHA procedures — to make written and oral representations to the board, including with legal support, on March 31st. Following careful consideration, the BHA confirmed today (April 1st) that it “did not consider it appropriate” to grant the licence.

In a statement, the BHA said: “The Board’s decision means GMRL is not licensed to stage any fixtures, pending the outcome of any appeal process. This means that regrettably no further fixtures will be staged at CCR pending the outcome of any appeal process.”

The fixtures scheduled for April 2nd and April 3rd will not be rescheduled. Plans for subsequent meetings, including the one on April 9th, will be announced in due course. The high-profile Good Friday fixture is among those now cancelled.

The reasons for the BHA’s decision have not been made public.

Chelmsford City Racecourse has experienced significant financial challenges in recent months. Just days ago, the venue required special dispensation from the BHA and administrators to stage its most recent fixture, highlighting the precarious position of the track.

The latest development throws the long-term future of racing at the venue into considerable doubt. Industry observers are now watching closely to see whether GMRL will appeal the decision and what alternative arrangements, if any, might be explored to safeguard racing at the popular Essex track.

Chelmsford has been a regular fixture on the all-weather calendar, providing valuable opportunities for trainers, jockeys, and owners, particularly during the winter months.

Further updates are expected as the situation develops, including any potential appeal by Golden Mile Racing Limited or statements from the racecourse itself.

The BHA Official Statement can be read here.