The recently completed, £20m development scheme at the Cheltenham Race Course has enabled the 2004 National Hunt Festival to be the busiest one ever.

On-course turnover is expected to surpass £40m over the three days, while the new £14m Centaur congress centre has 24 gaming machines, offering punters the possibility of gaming during the 40-minute gaps between events.

Other improvements to the racecourse, designed by Limbrick Architects, include the Courage Enclosure – a 3,000-capacity stand at the finishing line – and the complete reorganisation of the fencing and landscaping.

Stephen Limbrick, director, said: “We were keen to try and integrate the new building with the older ones. Materials for the Centaur centre and the new grandstand took their guide from the existing Tattersalls stand.”

On the opening day, 52,553 visitors came through the turnstiles and the Tote pool turnover soared to £2.9m. Part of the 28 per cent increase in takings was attributed to the gaming facilities offered at Centaur.

Edward Gillespie, the course’s managing director, said: “There is now a great feeling of space within the structures and a sense of flow that will lead visitors to explore the different areas.”

The Centaur centre also offers food and drink, seating for 1,000 people and a big screen covering the racing.

The Courage grandstand has two bars, a betting shop and a fish and chip restaurant.

Next year, the festival will be extended to four days. Details: www.cheltenham.co.uk