Grand National Stand Closed

Stand is closed for all public use

The Grand National Stand (Also known as the Public Grandstand) at the Riccarton Park Racecourse has been closed for all public use. This includes the seating in the face of the grandstand as well as the inside areas of the four levels.

The Board of the Canterbury Jockey Club has taken this decision after considering advice from its engineers and lawyers.

The Club has been working with its advisors and those of its insurer since the 2011 earthquake to identify the earthquake damage and repair strategies. Further recent intrusive investigations have resulted in engineers gathering additional information which has led to this decision.

The advice from the Club’s engineers is that the building is not at imminent risk of collapse under gravity loads, however earthquake damage has heightened a risk of collapse in the event of a design level earthquake.

Whilst the chances of such an earthquake are remote the Canterbury Jockey Club believes that with its 164 years of history providing a safe and enjoyable entertainment venue for the people of Canterbury, this is the only prudent decision available.

Upcoming racemeetings including the Grand National Racing Carnival will be able to be accommodated within remaining facilities. The Club will be considering how best to plan for the New Zealand Cup Meeting in November.

For further information contact Tim Mills, Chief Executive, 336 0050.