Chepstow Racecourse Jobs ‘At Risk’ Under New Gambling Tax Plan

_{Councillors discussed the potential impact of new gambling tax proposals. (Image: Chepstow Racecourse)}

Conservative councillors in Monmouthshire have called on the UK government to abandon proposed changes to gambling taxes that would treat bets on horse racing the same as games on online casinos.

The proposal, part of a Treasury review of remote gaming duty, could see the current 15% betting levy on horse racing aligned with the 21% rate applied to online slots and casino games. Industry leaders warn the change could cost the sport more than £66 million a year, threatening rural employment and local economies dependent on racecourse tourism.

Chepstow Racecourse at the Centre of the Debate

Councillors met at Chepstow Racecourse this week to discuss the potential fallout for stable staff, trainers, and local hospitality businesses. They urged Monmouthshire’s MP, Catherine Fookes, to oppose the measure in her role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Councillor Richard John, leader of the Conservative group on Monmouthshire County Council, said: 

“Chepstow racecourse contributes millions to the local economy each year, supporting jobs in hospitality and tourism, and these proposed tax changes will put those jobs at risk."

“Having a flutter at the races does not carry the harmful societal risks and addiction associated with online casino gambling, so should not be taxed in the same way.”

Councillors Warn of a Wider Economic Ripple

Chepstow Racecourse, one of Wales’s leading venues, hosts both jump and flat racing and contributes significantly to local employment. According to industry estimates, each fixture injects around £250,000 into the local economy through visitor spending on accommodation, dining, and transport.

Councillor Christopher Edwards, who represents the St Kingsmark ward in Chepstow, said: 

“Residents and tourists alike recognise the valuable contribution that Chepstow Racecourse brings to the local economy."

“The Labour government needs to rethink this proposed tax increase which would cost the sport at least £66 million a year, threatening thousands of jobs; from stable staff and farriers to small-town hotels, B&Bs, local pubs, shops, cafes and tourist destinations.”

He added that he hoped Catherine Fookes would “listen to these concerns, speak up for Chepstow Racecourse and persuade Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves to withdraw this excessive proposed tax increase.”

British Horseracing Authority and Racecourse Association Warn of Devastating Impact

The Treasury has said the planned change aims to simplify how gambling is taxed across sectors. However, the British Horseracing Authority and Racecourse Association have warned it could lead to fewer races, reduced prize money, and declining investment in the sport.

For Monmouthshire, where racing and tourism are key rural employers, the potential impact extends beyond the track. Local businesses dependent on race-day visitors, hotels, pubs, restaurants, and transport operators, could face sharp downturns if the proposals move forward.