Norwest Business Park, The Hills: $12m minigolf, driving range approved

Plans for a massive new minigolf and driving range facility — which will feature a function centre and alfresco dining space — have been revealed.

A multimillion-dollar vision for a major golfing complex in The Hills has been given the green light by The Hills Shire Council.

The $12 million plans for the state-of-the-art driving range, hospitality venue and function centre, dubbed Swing City will be built of Elizabeth Macarthur Dr, Norwest Business Park by property developer Mulpha.

A spokeswoman for the project, expected to include 40 driving range bays, a licenced restaurant, entertainment facilities, a minigolf complex and alfresco dining, told NewsLocal construction would start as early as next month.

Swing City Norwest – $12 million golfing and entertainment centre

“Each bay at Swing City’s golf driving range will feature the latest in golf ball tracking technology allowing players to not only improve their swing, but also to compete in a range of challenges including longest drive, nearest the pins and virtual play on many of the world’s most famous golf courses,” the spokeswoman said. 

Mulpha chief executive Greg Shaw said The Hills needed more leisure and entertainment options as The Hills continues to grow. 

“There are limited licensed sporting venues currently in the area, so Swing City will tap into a growing demand from people to enjoy the game of golf in a more family-friendly setting,” he said. “Swing City is just one of a number of new initiatives designed to create a vibrant, active and socially-engaged community, connected to nature and neighbours, and ultimately a highly liveable Smart City in Norwest.”

Artist impressions of the dining and entertainment facilities

Golf NSW media manager David Tease said there has been a recent boost in participation rates and the developers behind Swing City would be looking to take advantage of that increased interest.

It comes as March statistics from Golf Australia showed those aged 20-24 had the biggest jump in golf participation with a 54.5 per cent increase from last year.

Meanwhile, there was a 30.2 per cent increase in the 10-14 age bracket and a 49.8 per cent increase for those in the 20-29 age bracket.

Mr Tease said Swing City might have also been influenced by the US Top Golf model which focuses on creating the golf club as a “destination.”

He said more alternatives to traditional golf such as the hugely popular Holey Moley concept, with the provision of entertainment and bar facilities along with Putt-Putt in one place was a burgeoning business.

“They are catering for a need,” he said.

It is thought many new fans of the sport are being introduced via non traditional means including TV hit Holey Moley Australia. Stills Photography By Paul A. Broben

“There are lots of alternatives now… it’s moving the game in a more dynamic area and attracting a younger demographic.”

Despite the pandemic, there has been a steady increase in golf memberships in the past year, he said.

Golf Australia chief executive James Sutherland previously said more than 42,000 new members had joined golf clubs around Australia up to the end of last October.

Mr Tease said: “A lot of people clearly realised this was a pastime that could be maintained during those lockdown periods and we had a fairly significant uptick of participation in the sports and club memberships.

Artist impression of the function venue

“Golf was one of the few sports last year that kept going albeit with some heavily regulated conditions.”

Hills Shire Council mayor Michelle Byrne said: “Council welcomes this investment in local recreational facilities.”

“More than ever, our residents are looking at ways they can keep engaged and entertained during their downtime, and Swing City provides a new outlet to have fun, and spend time with family and friends.

“This type of development will have positive flow on effects for our region, in particular, stimulating the economy and creating more jobs. It also complements the recreational facilities and services that Council already provides,” Mayor Byrne added.