Speedway community still waiting for details about future home
Following a Government decision to boot Sydney Speedway from its western Sydney track, there are fresh fears over uncertainty surrounding a new home for racing fans and what impact it will have if plans aren’t put in place soon.
Parramatta
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Speedway management wants a decision about its future home by December 1 otherwise it fears it won’t have a base for the start of its 2021 season.
Last month, the State Government told Speedway officials they would be booted off their Clyde track to make way for a train shed when the Metro train line is built.
The government owns the land but management was outraged it was not given notice during negotiations to renew its lease, which was due to expire in 2026.
Since then relocation options have been presented to management, including the Sydney Dragway and the preferred choice of the Light Horse Exchange at Eastern Creek.
Management has criticised the dragway option because it is only half the space it currently occupies.
However, it favours the Light Horse Exchange but is seeking confirmation from Transport Minister Andrew Constance by next month.
Speedway business director Felicity Waldron said if suitable land was not identified by December 1, it would not be ready for the 2021 season to start in September that year.
Speedway Australia general manager Tim Savell said it was working with the government but uncertainty made it difficult.
“From Speedway’s perspective, it’s not ideal,’’ he said.
“People have put their life’s savings into the sport, there’s absolutely no certainty and that’s what we’re all chasing. That’s what causes angst within the Speedway community.’’
In Parliament on Thursday, NSW opposition leader Jodi McKay asked Acting Sports Minister and Parramatta state Liberal MP Geoff Lee where Speedway’s home would be after the government “blindsided the Speedway after 40 wonderful years’’.
She said Speedway operators had asked to move to the Light Horse Interchange site at Eastern Creek by June 2021 but wanted confirmation where Parramatta Speedway be relocated.
But Mr Lee rambled about the Metro project without answering the question for five minutes before saying the government was committed to building the Speedway.
“Metro West is very important for the people of western Sydney — a fantastic, revolutionary project that will actually change the TI western line,’’ he said.
“As part of building this world class project, there are decisions to be made and of course we’re committed to making those tough decisions for the people of western Sydney. The only decision (Labor) makes is to cancel the projects.’’
After Parliament Mr Lee said he and Mr Constance confirmed with Speedway operators it would get a new track.
“On Friday, November 15, the NSW Government met with Speedway stakeholders to consult on the new Speedway. We have committed to funding the new Speedway and delivering it as soon as possible,’’ he said.
“As soon as the location is confirmed, it will be announced publicly.”
The online petition to retain the Speedway at Clyde has amassed more than 36,000 signatures.