The much awaited opening of the mini pavilion at Racecourse Grounds in Reid Avenue, which has been converted to an up-market shopping complex, is to ceremonially take place tomorrow (Oct. 20).

Following the success of converting the Old Dutch Hospital in Colombo to a popular shopping center, the by the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development has refurbished the historic grandstand and mini pavilion while retaining the spirit of its original architecture.

Defence and Urban Development Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa is to declare open the new shopping complex which also houses supermarkets, restaurants and office space.

The old Race Course buildings have been renovated preserving their historical value and the colonial architecture under expert architectural design, at a cost of 125 million rupees using the labor force of the Army.

The Colombo Racecourse ground has been developed as the country’s first international rugby stadium and is now equipped with the latest facilities for international rugby, including a state-of-the art gymnasium, changing rooms, media rooms and a jogging track encircling the grounds.

The total project cost for renovation of the pavilion, grandstand and the construction of the rugby ground has been estimated at Rs. 470 million.

The Urban Development Authority is implementing the Race Course modernization and renovation project on the directions of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.  The pavilions will provide seating facilities for over 2,000 spectators at a time upon completion.