UK racecourse operator Arena Leisure has re-opened the Southwell Racecourse in Nottinghamshire following a £1.4m refurbishment.

The redevelopment work included the replacement of its original sand surface with a fibresand material, meaning the track can now be used for racing all year round.

The work on Southwell is part of Arena’s planned £12m investment in its racecourses, which has also included the refurbishment of the main grandstand at Lingfield Park and the installation of a polytrack surface at Wolverhampton.

Ian Penrose, chief executive, said: “Investing in our racecourses forms an integral part of Arena Leisure’s long-term strategy. We are committed to raising the standards of the racing experience for all of our customers.”

Arena operates six racecourses in the UK.