Manchester Racecourse, Castle Irwell (i): Stands

Roads and foundations to grandstand by Dorning. Starkey & Cuffley were responsible for the design of the Grandstand and other stands. Plans were to be ready for inspection on 2 March 1847 and tender return by 8 March 1847

NEW RACE COURSE, MANCHESTER - This new Course, allowed to be "one of the finest in England," lies in Broughton, two miles from the Manchester Exchange, on land belonging to Mr Fitzgerald, of Irwell Castle, immediately below the old course of Kersall Moor. It is almost surrounded by the river Irwell, is nearly on a level, and upwards of a mile in length. It has three approaches: one from Manchester, by the Suspension Bridge; another through Wallness; and the third by Pendleton. The Course is held on lease by 24 proprietors, at a rental of £500 per annum. The cost of the Stands, Stabling, &c., designed by Messrs Starkey and Cuffley, of Manchester, has been upwards of £8000; and about £2000 has been expended on the course, roads, &c. The first stone of the Grand Stand was laid by N. Slater, Esq, in March last; it is an elegant structure, and has been substantially built by the executors of the late Mr W. Trees; it will contain 1000 persons; and there are, also, two other Stands, which will accommodate 7200. The races commenced on Wednesday. [Illustrated London News, 29 May 1847]

Reference    Manchester Guardian 20 February 1847 Page 12 (Contracts)
Reference    Manchester Guardian 27 February 1847 Page 11 (Contracts)
Reference    Manchester Guardian 6 March 1847 Page 11 (Contracts)
Reference    Manchester Guardian Wednesday 28 April 1847 Page 6
Reference    Illustrated London News, 29 May 1847