UPDATE: The historic greyhound racing track at Wentworth Park in Sydney’s inner west is set to be demolished to create vital green space and community sporting fields, paving the way for 2,500 new homes. NSW Premier Chris Minns will officially announce the plan today, confirming a collaboration with the City of Sydney to rezone the surrounding land. This initiative will boost the total number of new homes in the precinct to a staggering 7,300, spanning areas between Glebe, Blackwattle Bay, and Pyrmont.
The 3.3-hectare site, located just 1.5 kilometers west of the Sydney CBD, will undergo redevelopment following the expiration of the greyhound lease in September 2027. This marks the end of over 100 years of racing history at Wentworth Park, which has served as a racing venue since 1932 and previously as a motor speedway.
In a move to enhance community engagement, Minister for Lands and Property and Sport Steve Kamper stated that the decision reflects a desire for “greater utilisation and community activation” of the area.
“This is how we build a fairer and more balanced Sydney,”
said Minns. The plan promises more homes, new playing fields, and improved public spaces, ensuring essential infrastructure supports these developments.
The announcement also includes the selection of Mirvac to redevelop the site of the old fish market, which will introduce an additional 1,400 homes. The NSW government is committed to reforming planning and zoning laws to address housing shortages and manage urban sprawl effectively.
The Wentworth Park precinct benefits from excellent transport links, including light rail access, a new ferry stop at the Sydney Fish Market, and proximity to the upcoming Pyrmont Metro station, set to open in 2032. This strategic planning aligns with the government’s broader urban infill strategy, focusing on higher-density housing near public transport options.
Despite the progress, Minns acknowledges the emotional weight of this decision.
“We recognise Wentworth Park holds deep history and meaning for many people, and we know some will be disappointed by this change,”
he stated. The government has also allocated $10 million through the greyhound capital grants program to facilitate the transfer of racing to other tracks, leaving only Richmond and Potts Park as the remaining greyhound venues in Sydney.
With this transformative project, the NSW government aims to balance tradition with community expectations, ensuring that new housing is developed in well-serviced areas. The focus is clear: build for the future while preserving the integrity and needs of the community.
As developments unfold, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these ambitious plans evolve and reshape the Wentworth Park area. Stay tuned for more updates on this significant urban development in Sydney.
