The Almaty hippodrome is once again owned by the city. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Following the president's instruction, it has been returned to municipal ownership, and now the authorities plan to restore the complex and give it back its full sports function. It is one of the oldest equestrian facilities in Almaty.
Future of the Hippodrome
The hippodrome is to be preserved as a single complex, without changing its historical and sports purpose. In Almaty's general plan until 2040, the territory is already assigned to the corresponding functional zone, and its intended use is not going to be changed.
Next, a development concept will be developed. Plans include renovating the stands, stables, sports tracks, and engineering networks, as well as restoring conditions for holding city and republican competitions.
Current Condition
Currently, the complex is heavily worn out, so repairs will be carried out in stages. The Almaty hippodrome appeared in 1930 and is considered one of the oldest horse breeding and equestrian sports facilities in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Its area is 39.1 hectares. Initially, it was designed for about 3,000 spectators and 300 horses.
Major repairs were carried out there in 1965 and 1985. In the 1990s, the hippodrome was privatized, and after the bankruptcy of JSC "Hippodrome" in 2001, the property complex was sold to private structures. Since then, the issue of returning the facility to the city has been repeatedly raised by the public.
Earlier, "Kursiv" wrote that the hippodrome in Almaty was twice attempted to be demolished for the construction of residential complexes and shopping centers.