New research into the impact of horse racing on the Welsh economy

The independent research is being undertaken by Arad on behalf of the British Horseracing Authority

New independent research has been commissioned to evaluate the contribution of the horse racing industry to the Welsh economy.

The assessment, which will look at direct and indirect inputs, will be undertaken by Cardiff-based research consultancy Arad for the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).

The study is the first ever assessment of the impact of the sport on the Welsh economy. The project, which is being financially supported by Arena Racing Company (ARC) and Chester Race Company (CRC), will involve surveys of stakeholders and businesses within the Welsh horse racing community and spectators attending meetings on Welsh racecourses over the remainder of the summer.

While the last remaining greyhound track in Wales, at Ystrad Mynach, is being closed following legislation, there is no suggestion that the new Plaid Cymru Cardiff Bay administration is considering seeking to ban horse racing in Wales.

As well as the impact of racecourses in Wales, such as Chepstow, Bangor-on-Dee and Ffos Las, the research will also assess the contribution of betting. The overall economic impact is expected to run into tens of millions of pounds per year.

Greg Swift, director of communications and corporate affairs at the BHA, said: “We’re delighted to commission Arad Research to carry out this important work on behalf of the thriving and historic horse racing industry in Wales.

“The sport is undoubtedly an economic and cultural powerhouse in Wales. But we want clear evidence to present to the Government that shows the significance of the industry across the country and the role it plays in growing regional economies and communities.

“The survey is crucial to supporting the research and the economic evidence, so we are asking Welsh racing and breeding businesses to support and contribute to Arad’s work and help us demonstrate to policy makers the essential role horse racing plays in Wales.”

Arad director Hefin Thomas, said: We’re pleased to have been commissioned to undertake this important research which will examine the economic contribution of horse racing in Wales. This will include consideration of the direct impact of activities at Chepstow, Ffos Las and Bangor-on-Dee racecourses as well as wider economic impacts throughout the sector and supply chain.”

Regional director with Arena Racing Company, whose racecourse portfolio includes Chepstow and Ffos Las, Phil Bell, said: “We very much look forward to working with Arad, our colleagues at BHA, Bangor on Dee Racecourse and everyone across the world of Welsh horse racing to make sure that we can show exactly what a success story our sport is, and how important it is to a wide range of communities in Wales.”

Chief executive of Chester Racing Company – which owns Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse – Louise Stewart ,said: “We feel that it is really important for Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse to collaborate with the BHA and other Welsh racecourses to support this research project.

“Horse racing plays a significant role in Wales, supporting jobs, attracting tourism and generating economic activity in communities. While we witness its impact in the North Wales economy, robust evidence is vital to ensuring the industry’s value is fully understood as we continue to work closely with government.

“We look forward to the findings of the report, which will help showcase the contribution our racecourses make to the sporting and economic landscape of Wales. Just as importantly, it will provide valuable insights to help shape the future growth and success of the industry.”