Racing: Tote closed at Hutt Park

Harness racing at Hutt Park in Wellington has come to an end.

This follow's a decision by Justice Hammond's in the High Court in Wellington yesterday which clears the way for Hutt City Council to begin a multi-million dollar redevelopment of the grounds.

Wellington Harness Racing Club took the council to court, betting on being able to convince the judge that part of the park had to be set aside for racing under the terms of a historic trust.

The decision could also mean an end to harness racing in the region. Club president Ivan McNicholl said the club was unlikely to appeal, and there were no other suitable venues for the sport locally.

it was unlikely to provide a haven for trotting as it was not an all-weather track, so would not draw the necessary crowds,

In 1995, the club surrendered its lease on the Hutt Park track back to Hutt City Council, which forgave about $80,000 rent and rates and took over responsibility for maintaining the buildings.

In 2001, the club went to court claiming the council had overcharged it about $200,000 rates.

But Justice Hammond rejected the club's arguments, calling them a "last ditch" effort, and ordered them to pay the council as yet undecided costs.

- NZPA