Plans for the first new racecourse to be built in Britain since 1927, have been given the green light by planners.

The £25m racetrack will form part of the Essex County Showground (owned by John Holmes), to be redeveloped as both a racecourse and a stand-alone leisure and exhibition centre in addition to its race-day function. 'It's important that we make good use of consent for leisure use all year round. Too many venues have too focused a remit,' said spokesperson, Pippa Cuckson.

Construction - to be overseen by Yolles, starts shortly on the glass-fronted, grandstand with seating for 2,000 and standing for 5,000. The grandstand, set to open in 2003, will also house two restaurants, 3,700sq m of flexible exhibition space, two 372sq m conference rooms and a 2,000sq m fitness centre with pool.

Essex County Showground has also acquired the adjacent Woodlands Manor Hotel, which is to be refurbished as a four-star hotel with spa. Details: www.greatleighs.com