Is one of Britain’s most iconic racecourses preparing to gallop into history? Kempton Park Racecourse, a venue steeped in tradition and prestige, is now at the centre of a major redevelopment debate that could change the face of British horse racing forever. For decades, this Surrey-based track has hosted legends, celebrated holidays, and welcomed communities but recent updates suggest its time may be running out.
This article breaks down the latest developments, community reactions, and what the future might hold for the Kempton Park site. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, a local resident, or simply tracking property trends, this guide offers a complete view of the unfolding story behind the Kempton Park closure.
Why Is Kempton Park Racecourse Facing Closure?
Kempton Park Racecourse, one of Britain’s most recognisable racing venues, is facing closure due to redevelopment plans initiated by its owner, The Jockey Club. The decision, originally announced in 2017, revolves around a long-term vision to unlock the land’s financial value.
With Kempton situated within the London commuter belt, the site is viewed as an opportunity to address the region’s growing demand for housing.
The Jockey Club has stated that revenue from selling the land would be reinvested into other racing facilities across the UK. However, this strategy has sparked a mix of support and opposition from various stakeholders, including local communities, racing fans, and urban planners.
Who Owns Kempton Park and What Are Their Plans?
Owned by The Jockey Club, Kempton Park sits on a substantial tract of land in Sunbury-on-Thames. The current proposal is to redevelop the area into a residential estate, potentially including over 3,000 homes, along with other community amenities such as schools and public spaces.
The Jockey Club argues that such a move will help support the future of British horse racing by redirecting funds into other racecourses. Nevertheless, it has raised concerns about the impact on the sport’s calendar and on Kempton’s long-standing legacy.
What Redevelopment Plans Are Proposed for the Kempton Park Site?
The proposed plans include a complete transformation of the racecourse into a mixed-use residential community. With Kempton’s proximity to London, the land is seen as ideal for large-scale urban development.
There is an ongoing review process involving Spelthorne Borough Council, with the site being considered for reclassification out of Green Belt status.
The development, still subject to planning permissions, could commence between 2026 and 2028, depending on council decisions and public feedback.
How Will the Proposed Housing Development Affect the Area?
Transforming Kempton Park into a housing estate would have a major impact on the local environment and infrastructure. While the development could ease housing pressures in the South East, it also raises challenges regarding road congestion, public services, and environmental sustainability.
Residents have expressed concern that Sunbury-on-Thames could lose a large portion of its green space and character. Local services, including schools and healthcare, may struggle to cope with the increased demand.
How Has the Local Community Reacted to the Kempton Park Closure?
The proposed closure has generated a considerable response from the public. Many local residents view the racecourse as more than just a sporting venue. it’s a social and cultural landmark that has hosted everything from equestrian events to antiques markets.
On platforms like Google Reviews, users frequently mention their emotional connection to the venue. Some express disappointment at losing a historic site, while others are worried about how the new development will affect the town’s identity.
What Are Fans and Residents Saying on Google Reviews?
Feedback from the racing community and local visitors has been passionate. A recurring theme is the sense of loss associated with closing a racecourse that has served generations. Some call the closure “short-sighted,” while others worry about how racing events will be redistributed.
Although a minority of voices support the housing development due to its potential social value, the overall sentiment leans toward preserving the site or at least maintaining part of it for public and sporting use.
What Does the Kempton Park Closure Mean for UK Horse Racing?
Kempton Park plays a vital role in the UK racing calendar, especially for National Hunt racing. Events like the King George VI Chase, which takes place annually around Christmas eve, are central to the sport’s seasonal highlights.
The closure would force the Jockey Club and racing organisers to redistribute events to nearby venues. While The Jockey Club has pledged to maintain the integrity of the sport, many in the industry worry that losing Kempton could reduce both accessibility and prestige.
Are There Alternatives for Racing Events in the Region?
Yes, several nearby racecourses may be able to take over events traditionally hosted at Kempton Park. Each of these venues offers a combination of facilities for jump, flat, or all-weather racing, but not all can fully replicate Kempton’s versatility.
| Racecourse | Distance from Kempton | Type of Racing | Potential to Absorb Events |
| Sandown Park | 6 miles | Flat / Jump Racing | High |
| Ascot | 16 miles | Flat / Jump Racing | Medium |
| Lingfield Park | 30 miles | All-Weather / Flat | Medium |
| Newbury | 40 miles | Jump Racing | Low |
Each venue has its own limitations in terms of capacity, layout, and scheduling, which may require broader adjustments across the racing calendar.
What Is the History and Legacy of Kempton Park Racecourse?
Kempton Park has a rich heritage dating back to 1878. Over the decades, it became synonymous with both high-level National Hunt racing and all-weather flat racing, attracting top jockeys, trainers, and spectators alike.
Its legacy also includes technological innovations like floodlit evening races, making it accessible to wider audiences. Beyond racing, Kempton served the community through public events, concerts, and fairs, leaving a lasting cultural footprint.
What Are the Economic and Environmental Impacts of the Closure?
The closure will likely generate mixed economic outcomes. While it may create short-term employment in construction and long-term gains in housing, it also represents a loss for the local hospitality and tourism sectors that depend on race days and public events.
Environmentally, the conversion of green belt land into urban development is a contentious issue. The project could disrupt local ecosystems and increase pollution due to construction and traffic.
What Are the Next Steps and Timeline for Kempton Park Closure?
As of late 2025, no final decision has been confirmed. The planning process is still ongoing, with Spelthorne Borough Council yet to finalise whether the site can be removed from the green belt classification.
Key developments to watch:
- Continued public consultations into 2026
- Jockey Club submissions for formal planning approval
- Potential site redevelopment between 2026–2028, if approved
There remains some uncertainty, but the project appears to be progressing unless significant legal or political opposition emerges.
Is There Still a Chance the Closure Could Be Reversed?
While a complete reversal is unlikely at this stage, certain factors could stall or modify the plans. Public opinion, legal challenges, or changes in government housing policy could affect how, when, or whether the redevelopment proceeds.
Campaigns are ongoing, and pressure from historical preservation societies and environmental groups may still influence outcomes in the coming years.
Conclusion
The proposed closure of Kempton Park Racecourse stands at the intersection of heritage, housing needs, and community identity. The site represents both a valued historical landmark and a potential opportunity to address housing shortages.
Whether the racecourse ultimately closes or transitions into a mixed-use community, the situation reflects broader challenges across the UK balancing progress with preservation.
FAQs
Is Kempton Park Racecourse still open for events in 2025?
Yes, Kempton Park continues to host racing events as of December 2025, although some fixtures have been reduced in anticipation of redevelopment.
What will happen to the races traditionally held at Kempton?
Key races, including the King George VI Chase, may be moved to venues like Sandown Park or Ascot, although final decisions depend on venue capacity and scheduling.
Are there any petitions or campaigns to stop the closure?
Several petitions and online campaigns have been launched by residents and horse racing fans. These initiatives aim to preserve the racecourse or at least protect part of the site from full redevelopment.
Who will benefit from the redevelopment of Kempton Park?
If approved, housing developers, The Jockey Club, and new homeowners stand to benefit. The Jockey Club plans to use proceeds to fund upgrades at other racecourses.
Will any part of the historic venue be preserved?
No preservation plans have been confirmed. However, campaigners have suggested converting some of the racecourse land into a public park or retaining heritage structures.
How are racehorse trainers adapting to the change?
Some trainers are preparing for relocation to other tracks or adjusting their schedules to accommodate the loss of Kempton’s facilities.
What does the Kempton closure mean for the Jockey Club?
Financially, it allows them to fund broader infrastructure upgrades. However, the closure has attracted criticism, with many questioning the trade-off between financial gains and historical significance.