Rezoning of land across from Morphettville Racecourse allows 200 homes, high-density housing

Hundreds of new homes in apartment blocks could be built after the state government rezoned land for old stables across from Morphettville Racecourse.

High-density housing will be built across the road from Morphettville Racecourse under an adopted rezoning of two lots of land where horse stables once stood under a plan.

About 200 new houses would be built at the Glengowrie site after the state government announced the land could be repurposed.

Two land rezonings will allow about 200 homes including townhouses, row houses, stand-alone homes and apartments across nearly 14ha at 86 to 88 Morphett Rd

The land will be rezoned from recreation and horse-related use to urban and suburban neighbourhood zones.

The land once contained stables and was used for racing activities but changes to horse stabling have since made the lot redundant for racing.

About 200 homes could be built in an area across from Morphettville Racecourse. Picture: Supplied.

SA Jockey Club chief executive Grant Mayer said it would provide “the flexibility to explore long-term commercial options that can enhance the viability of racing in South Australia for generations to come”.

The first of the two code amendments will rezone about 1.5ha at 86-88 Morphett Road, across from the racecourse, to unlock up to 136 homes.

Developments of up to eight levels for residential or mixed-use purposes will be facilitated at the site.

The second amendment, initiated by Marion Council, affects the residential area adjacent the racecourse where changes means large houses on large lots to allow backyard stables are no longer needed.

Previously, the land for housing had to be a minimum of 560 sqm, with a front of at least 15m wide.

Under the changes, the minimum land size will vary between 250 to 300 sqm and the front can be seven to 9m.

SA Jockey Club chief executive Grant Mayer said the opportunities the rezoning presents are “incredibly exciting”. Picture: Kelly Barnes

While there are currently no development plans for the site, Mr Mayer said “the potential is significant”.

“We’re excited about what this could potentially bring to the atmosphere of the racecourse,” he said.

“The opportunities this presents for Morphettville and the wider racing industry is incredibly exciting.”

In 2023, the racecourse unveiled a $350m redevelopment including a community plaza to create a grand entry to the racecourse, mixed-use apartment buildings and townhouses with more than 400 homes, supermarket, shops, hospitality outlets and tavern.

Artist impression showing a track view of the Morphettville redevelopment. Picture: Supplied

The block would be “a good spot for high-density housing”, Marion mayor Kris Hanna said.

“Our consultation with Morphettville residents showed support for slightly higher density in their streets off of Morphett Rd, which may eventually encourage horse trainers to sell up and relocate,” Mr Hanna said.

Housing Minister Nick Champion said the move could increase housing supply. Image/Russell Millard Photography

The rezoning represents a possible “creative approach” to help tackle the crisis in housing supply, Housing Minister Nick Champion said.

“By repurposing land once used for horse racing activities, we’re providing more South Australians with the opportunity to own or rent a home close to jobs, transport and established community service,” Mr Champion said.

It comes after buyers snapped up luxury homes at the $350m Morphettville Racecourse redevelopment in November.

The properties are being developed on 7.5ha of rezoned land between the racetrack and Anzac Highway by Villawood Properties in a joint venture with the South Australian Jockey Club and superannuation giant Hostplus.