According to a recent report, the now-defunct Tartan Downs in Sydney, NS is in the process of being sold in a deal that is expected to go firm in early November.

News of the pending sale comes courtesy of a recent article by the CBC that explains that Cape Breton University is the entity that is in line to purchase the former Standardbred raceway.

No specific plans were mentioned in terms of what the university is planning on doing with Tartan Downs’ existing grounds. The CBC piece has cited the university as saying that there will future development on the property, but details were not divulged.

Tartan Downs’ owner, Jack MacNeil, also declined to comment on the sale when asked. He did convey that he would be in a position to comment once the deal is finalized.

A 2007 aerial photo of the former Tartan Downs and its property.

Some horses are still boarded at the former raceway and some still use the track for training.

MacNeil, a former horseman, purchased the longtime harness raceway in 1995 after it fell into receivership. The track, which was once known as the Cape Breton Sports Centre, was shut down in 2007 when it failed to remain financially viable.

The grandstand was demolished in 2012. Deals to purchase Tartan Downs have fallen through over the years.

A shot of one of the old barns that is still standing on the property of the former Tartan Downs raceway.

(With files from the CBC)