In an email to members, big on buzzwords and friendly phrases, and light on detail, the Australian Turf Club has announced plans to commence negotiations with the state government on a proposal to develop Rosehill Gardens racecourse, creating 25,000 new homes around a new Sydney Metro West station.
In what the club is calling a “first step”, it is estimated that $5 billion will be returned to the ATC and the racing industry with the “potential and scope to see”:
Warwick Farm fully redeveloped to include a new grandstand, conference and entertainment precinct, members only club, cafes and restaurant, world class tracks and new on course stables.
Likewise for Canterbury with the additional plan of increasing the size and circumference of the course proper.
Randwick to have the Official Stand upgraded and new stables and training infrastructure.
A new centre of excellence at Horsley Park alongside the International Equestrian Centre.
And several sites to be “earmarked and investigated for a new, world class racecourse”.
It is reported the plans will hinge on the construction of a new Sydney Metro West station, a project that has already been delayed until 2032 with a current estimated cost of $25.3 billion.
The email goes on to read:
“It is envisaged Rosehill Gardens will continue to host racing and training for at least the next 4 to 5 years, until such time as the new facilities are ready for use.
“This proposal will involve careful and extensive due diligence with a full business case developed by ATC and the NSW Government.
“Along with these once in a generation improvements to our racing, training, stabling and spectator facilities, we are playing a major role within the community to help ease the housing crisis across Sydney.
“ATC and the entire racing industry on every level stands to benefit as we fully secure the future of Sydney racing into the next century.”
There’s many steps to come after this first one.
