Proposed redevelopment of Sandown Racecourse back in spotlight
Action has been taken on a major step in a proposed multimillion-dollar redevelopment of the historic Sandown Racecourse in Springvale.
South East
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The historic Sandown Racecourse could undergo a major multimillion-dollar redevelopment to house thousands of people in Melbourne’s south east.
The rezoning proposal calls for 112ha of land, owned by Melbourne Racing Club, to be transformed in Springvale.
The track could be replaced with 7500 new dwellings that would comprise of houses and retail spaces including medical, fitness and childcare facilities, office buildings and a primary school.
The $3.5 billion project would allow residency for at least 16,000 people and generate 825 ongoing jobs.
Melbourne Racing Club submitted a Planning Scheme Amendment to City of Greater Dandenong.
At a meeting on Monday night, councillors unanimously agreed to seek permission from Planning Minister Richard Wynne to release the plans for public consultation.
“This will be the opportunity, once it is exhibited, for the community to examine these plans and have their say,” Cr Rhonda Garad said.
“It should be noted that seeking authorisation does not imply council support for or against the proposal but enables the formal amendment process to commence,” a council agenda said.
It’s understood that Melbourne Racing Club have discussed the proposed plans with council officers since late 2017.
The project will be divided into four stages that will span for at least 20 years with separate permits required for each stage.
Heritage elements of the 20th century site will be identified to be included in the designs.
Racing Victoria and Melbourne Racing Club said they were working together on the proposed redevelopment.
“Racing Victoria supports the Melbourne Racing Club’s application as an important step to understanding the potential options for Sandown and its role as part of the broader racing industry infrastructure footprint,” a joint statement said.
“No decision on Sandown’s future will be made until after an extensive consultation process has been undertaken.”
Both organisations said they would consult with industry participants, MRC members, the local community and other relevant stakeholders.
Sandown will remain as is for the foreseeable future with horseracing and supercars to continue on periodical contracts for their meetings.
