Land rezoned to allow SA Jockey Club’s $400m housing project at Morphettville Racecourse
The SA Jockey Club’s plan to build apartment buildings up to 12 storeys high at Morphettville Racecourse has overcome a major hurdle.
West & Beaches
Don't miss out on the headlines from West & Beaches. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- SAJC members in revolt over $400m housing development
- SAJC court case continues as ‘saviour’ in hospital
The prospect of a $400 million residential estate on part of Morphettville Racecourse is a step closer, with the State Government rezoning the land to allow for housing.
The South Australian Jockey Club has announced it has been notified by Planning Minister Stephan Knoll that its Development Plan Amendment has been approved, paving the way for the development that includes 1000 homes in apartment buildings up to 12 storeys high.
Land between the racecourse entrance and Anzac Highway, including the site of The Junction Hotel, has been rezoned as “Urban Core”.
This allows for a combination of major land use types, with housing limited to 60 per cent of the site.
SAJC chief executive Grant Mayer said the rezoning would allow the club to “unlock” the value of the racecourse as part of its master plan, which was developed seven years ago under then chairman Tony Newman.
Under the plan, part of the racecourse, that first held a meeting in 1875, would be developed into a “vibrant residential, retail and community facility”.
It would include a new park-and-ride facility, 5500sq m of shop space, student and aged accommodation, serviced apartments up to 12 storeys high, affordable housing and medical businesses.
“We will now start an informal engagement process with the development market to seek feedback from companies interested in participating with the SAJC in the development of the club’s land,” a club statement reads.
“That will then lead to a formal expression of interest process which will ultimately shape what the eventual redevelopment will look like, how it will be delivered and, importantly, what returns the club will ultimately realise.”
The SAJC has employed David Sinclair, who was involved in the $2 billion development of Moonee Valley racecourse in Melbourne, to drive the project and secure a development partner.
MORE NEWS
Taskforce over Ann Marie Smith carer death
Families tribute to donor daughter
Court eases Cy Walsh restrictions
Cox Architects has been appointed to provide concept designs that would include the likely demolition of The Junction Hotel.
The SAJC is currently suing four people in the District Court, including former director Kevin Harrison and life member Bill Spear, for allegedly disclosing confidential board information including the club’s plan for the $400 million housing development
Mr Spear has publicly opposed the proposal on the basis SAJC members have not been fully informed of the details, including the costs already incurred on the project.
Last year then SAJC chair, Bodelle Francis, declined to reveal how much had been spent on consultancies for the project.