Caulfield Racecourse to be turned into key sporting and community hub under $300m plan
Caulfield Racecourse is among the nation’s most famous sporting venues, but a $300 million plan will transform it into a destination for all to enjoy. See what’s in store.
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Caulfield Racecourse will be transformed into a key community destination under a $300 million plan featuring sporting hubs, event spaces, a running and cycle track and enhanced wetlands.
An area the size of ten MCGs comprising the racecourse reserve will have integrated facilities for the public while the iconic venue will continue to host racing meets.
Located just 12km from the CBD, Caulfield has vast open space mainly in the centre of the reserve which has been underused for years.
Chair of Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Trust, Sam Almaliki said the reserve will be transformed into an accessible and vibrant activity hub for the community over 15 years.
“We are incredibly excited and proud to release this plan which brings much needed
attention to the future of the reserve, and addresses the issues that we’ve heard
from the community,” he said.
“We expect that the plan will be funded from a range of sources including state and local government, and other sector specific investment partners.”
Highlights of the plan include a new sporting hub featuring an indoor stadium, turf and synthetic sports fields, club room and cafe.
A track for walkers, joggers and cyclists will go around the reserve’s perimeter, while two new tunnels will give easy access to the big central space.
Community and event spaces will cater to differing sizes, and family-friendly areas will include a community garden and nature-based play spot for children.
Mr Almaliki said events could range from large-scale experiences to small community ones.
“There is no other place in Victoria that combines all the elements of premier events,
a sports hub and community spaces within the natural environment as will the
Caulfield Racecourse Reserve,” he said.
The Trust is seeking submission from all stakeholders and the community on its
draft land management plan by August 14, and also seeking interest from potential partners for the project.
“We are ready to get these projects off the ground and are inviting interested
organisations to join us and make it happen.” Mr Almaliki said.
Glen Eira College principal Sheereen Kindler said the reserve will be a wonderful space for all members of the community.
“We were so impressed and grateful that feedback was taken seriously, and that...it will meet the needs of the diverse community that it will serve - year-round sporting facilities, greater community and cultural spaces, better and more equitable access as well as a place for quiet and informal recreation,” she said.
This week, the State Government approved the $250 million Caulfield Village mixed-use development at Station St, which includes affordable housing, a supermarket, and shops and offices.
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