THE going is good at Kelso Racecourse after the green light was given for a new storage and soil management facility.

Scottish Borders Council has approved an application for the erection of a portal frame agronomist shed with external facilities at the racecourse.

Agronomists are expert in the science of soil management and also crop production.

It is a British Horse Racing Association requirement that all racecourses must have an independent agronomic report each year, this includes looking at the condition of the track, sward cover, density and grass health, before undertaking soil profile sampling to ascertain the condition of the topsoil around the track.

In a submission with the report, Jonathan Garratt, managing director of Kelso Races Ltd, said: “The proposed structure consists of a six-bay barn and will be an integral part of the racecourse infrastructure – being used 365 days each year as part of the ongoing maintenance function, as well as having specific functions during raceday events.”

The shed will also be used for the safe and secure storage of chemicals, tools and machinery of significant value.