Newmarket’s council has approved plans for the construction of new student accommodation aimed at young apprentices at the town’s racing school. The horse racing industry, which employs more than 6,500 people in Newmarket, is in for a hard defeat. It is at the same time contending with a crushing housing deficit and soaring cost of living that disproportionately affect young workers.
The planning documents outlined the pressing need for such accommodation, stating that “the Newmarket Housing Trust has identified the need for affordable, well-located accommodation as an urgent priority, particularly for young people entering the workforce.” The approval of the new site was contingent on numerous conditions. One big requirement is that the approved development must begin construction within three years of receiving the CAA.
Shortages in available housing throughout York Region, particularly Newmarket in this case, have reached dire levels, worsened by the rising price of living. Vulnerable young apprentices These young apprentices are often in vulnerable situations. They find it difficult to access stable housing as they work to lay the foundation for their careers in the competitive horse racing industry. The accommodation as approved is specifically aimed at tackling these issues head on, offering safe and reasonably priced housing with accommodations for students.
The local council’s commitment to supporting the horse racing industry reflects its significance to Newmarket’s economy. As noted in the planning documents, “with over 6,500 people employed within the horse racing industry in Newmarket, housing shortages and rising living costs present significant challenges, particularly for young apprentices.”
This transition addresses critical housing demands. Stakeholders assert that it is essential in order to keep Newmarket’s role as a worldwide centre for racing excellence. The Jockey Club Estates stressed the need to provide adequate accommodation for young apprentices. This support is critically important to helping nurture the industry’s long-term health and economic development.
