Australian Turf Club members have rejected a $5 billion proposal to sell Sydney’s Rosehill Racecourse, marking the end of a 17-month saga. The NSW Minns government had hoped to use the site for a new “mini city”. The debate ahead of the vote lasted over an hour, with 56% voting against the sale and 44% in favor.
ATC club chairman Peter McGauran expressed disappointment at the result, having supported the sale. The government planned to build 25,000 new homes and a Metro West station on the site if the sale was approved. NSW Premier Chris Minns voiced his disappointment at the decision, citing missed opportunities to address the housing crisis.
The rejected proposal aimed to generate $1.9 billion for upgrades to other Sydney race tracks. McGauran acknowledged the challenges ahead due to the lack of funding and emphasized the need to align with Racing NSW and the state government’s objectives.
McGauran warned of a decline in interest in racing, considering it a niche sport in Australia. He criticized independent MP Mark Latham for his opposition to the proposal. The vote involved 11,000 members and was described as the most consequential in the club’s history.
Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Scott Farlow criticized the process, stating that the housing crisis remains unsolved. McGauran had earlier highlighted the financial benefits of the proposal, aiming to secure the racing industry for future generations.
The proposal included state government payments to the ATC for major investments over 15 years, including redeveloping Warwick Farm into a replacement Group 1 track. Premier Chris Minns expressed disappointment at the rejection, emphasizing the benefits of the development for Sydney.
Minns ruled out compulsory acquisition of the site if the club voted against the sale, leaving the decision to the ATC members. The rejected proposal was seen as a missed opportunity to revitalize the racing scene in Sydney and secure the financial future of the club.
Despite the setback, the ATC remains committed to its core business and future goals. The rejection of the redevelopment plan reflects the complexities of balancing tradition with modernization in the racing industry, highlighting the challenges faced by clubs in adapting to changing times.
The decision underscores the importance of community engagement and transparency in major development projects. The future of Rosehill Racecourse remains uncertain, with implications for the broader racing industry and urban development in Sydney.
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