Fairyhouse restricts access to walkers on advice of Gardai after 'number of incidents'

Local people who have been using Fairyhouse racecourse for daily walks have expressed their anger and sadness after the actions of a minority of individuals forced management to restrict access to the popular track.

General Manager Peter Roe informed the local community that, on advice of the Gardai, they would be closing the facility to the public. It had become very popular place to walk and get fresh air during the Covid-19 lockdown, with the management opening the home of the Irish Grand National for a number of hours each day.

"‪It’s with great disappointment that we have to restrict all access to the racecourse to the general public including walkers with immediate effect‬ following Garda advice," said Peter Roe, general manager, earlier this week.

It's believed property damage and people accessing restricted parts of the course brought about the decision.

"We appreciate how disappointing this news is and we know Fairyhouse is very much appreciated by the local community."

Mr Roe added that CCTV was in operation at the track and they would be working with the Gardai going forward before concluding how sorry the team at Fairyhouse were to have to come to this decision.

Commenting on Facebook one walker said: "Thank you for many years walking at Fairyhouse It's such a pity a few people spoil it for the rest of us who appreciated this local amenity daily."

Another said: "Such a terrible pity a few had to ruin it for the majority who love walking the racecourse. Thank you to Fairyhouse for all the beautiful walks and chats I’ve had there over the years. Looking forward to going up for the races soon."