Great Leighs racecourse remains unsold as bids are rejected

Essex based- racecourse Great Leighs so far remains unsold since it went into administration in January.

The administrators today (19 March) confirmed that both leading bids have been rejected.

Joint administrator and partner at Deloitte, Carlton Siddle said: “Unfortunately neither of the offers was able to demonstrate sufficient financial support for us to recommend acceptance to the creditors.

“We have confirmed in writing to the creditors that the two bids were inadequate and have been rejected.”

The joint administrators also said that they have entered into discussions with the Royal Bank of Scotland, the main creditor, to investigate whether, in light of the rejection of the two bids, it could take ownership of the course in conjunction with a suitable racing operator.

Racecourse operators have now been asked to submit bids to run the course.

Mr Siddle added: “Negotiations are at an early stage and we continue to liaise with the BHA regarding the relevant licensing requirements and application procedure that will be needed before racing can return to Great Leighs.

“We are aware of the forthcoming negotiations for 2010 fixtures and are fully focused on working to ensure that Great Leighs participates fully in this process.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now