Racecourse restoration creates world-class mall

Text and pix by Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

The refurbished racecourse opened its doors to be the latest of top line malls in Colombo comparable to or better than any exclusive shopping mall anywhere in the world.

The promenade with its classic colonial architecture, its wide verandahs and corridors captures the old-world charm and opulence of the property. It opened with leading brand shops including R n R restaurant, Laksala, Colours, Hameedia, DSI, McDonalds and a Chinese restaurant to be opened soon. The racecourse building long unused was refurbished by the UDA and rented out to some of the leading brands in fashion, stationery, handicrafts and catering. In line with the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development Secretary, Gotabaya Rajapaksa's plan to improve the city, this colonial building was restored to its former glory and made to be one of the best shopping arcades today in the country.

Overlooking the rugby grounds, this location will attract locals and foreigners alike when international tournaments are hosted at this venue. The shops Laksala, Hameedias, Colours and R n R resturant have quality and top line products and services. The emphasis is on quality and style. R n R, the restaurant on the top deck caters to Sri Lankan and tourists alike. Catering to meet the requirements of any palette, the popularity of the restaurant is growing fast. The Racecourse mall is the first of the sections of original pavilions to be restored. The grandstand will also be refurbished.

With the completion of the racecourse complex this location will showcase exclusive shops selling products of leading brands available in any leading world capital.

The fully furbished mini-pavillion of the former racecourse ground in Colombo will be a fully equipped modern shopping and restaurant complex. The Rs 125 million development project includes an international rugby stadium, gymnasium and a jogging track.