Turffontein Racecourse is undergoing a facelift and various projects in Phase 1 of the redevelopment have been completed already. Other are works in progress or due to start soon.

In terms of the overall redevelopment of Turffontein, racing operator Phumelela has commissioned urban design specialists GAPP to produce a master plan proposal that will focus on co-ordinating existing and new projects into an overall strategic spatial and implementation framework, which will guide all future developments at the venue. Phase 1 projects include the redesign and refurbishment of the hall on the first floor of the main grandstand that leads to all sit-down facilities.

This is nearing completion. Work commenced in December and the project should be completed by the end of March. The central kitchen underneath the grandstand has been completed at a cost of some R8-million. This kitchen will serve all satellite kitchens at Turffontein and will enhance both the delivery and quality of food. The security of the perimeter of Turffontein has been enhanced with the installation of beams throughout and surveillance cameras at selected points.

A new pedestrian entrance at the main entrance off Turf Club Street has also been completed. A piazza flowing from the entrance to the Silks Bingo Hall is under construction. This will be an exhilarating open area with tables and chairs from which to take in the racing action. It faces the track and food and refreshments will be served. This area is flanked by The Pavilion on the west side and the bingo hall on the south side. Phase 2 of the Silks Bingo Hall and plans to build a new facility for racegoers under the grandstand are being reviewed. Details will be released soon. Plans are progressing for a hotel at Turffontein, which forms part of a strategy to transform the racecourse into a multi-dimensional destination and which will enhance conferencing at the venue. The first step is to apply for rezoning in order to allow for the construction of the hotel.

Professional services firm KPMG is being utilised as a consultant on the hotel development. In Port Elizabeth, the new R21-million Fairview stabling and training complex for 280 horses is due to be completed in mid February. Once the new complex is ready, trainers at Arlington will start to move their horses in and it is envisaged that the move will be completed by the end of April.

The move is in preparation for the development of a 183-erf residential housing estate at Arlington. Racing at Arlington will continue uninterrupted during the development.