Hove are to drop their 515m standard distance in favour of a new trip of 490 metres.
Ladbrokes Coral Stadium Director Ian Smyth said: “The new traps are on order and we will integrate the new distance before the end of the year. We have spoken to GBGB and it will be a gradual process.
“We have made the decision because the 515 metres after discussions with trainers because the 515 is simply too tough for many dogs. I realise that the 515 metres has a history at Hove and at this stage at least, we are not planning to get rid of it completely. I am happy to discuss it.
“I am sure a lot of people will be jumping to all kinds of conclusion relating to Towester and the Derby. It is nothing to do with any of that. These plans have been in place for a while.”
Smyth has also confirmed the introduction of a new injury monitoring regime which will commence on September 1 at all four of the Ladbrokes Coral tracks.
He said: “It will be very comprehensive and allow us to study trends in some depth. It will also include data relating to injuries that aren’t detected until the following day. We have always been aware of them, but have never monitored them previously.”
