Racing move fast-tracked by council

By Melissa Grant
COUNCILLORS have moved to fast-track the relocation of the Pakenham Racecourse.
A special council meeting was called last week in a bid to have the project referred to the Priority Development Panel.
Civic leaders agreed to request Minister for Planning Justin Madden to do so, given the project’s regional significance.
Cardinia Shire general manager Phil Walton described the move as a “matter of urgency”, saying both Pakenham Racing Club and RVL need certainty – in regards to both the new racecourse and redevelopment of the existing one – through the planning process.
The Pakenham Racing Club has purchased a site in Longwarry Road, Tynong, to relocate but is waiting to get the thumbs up from Racing Victoria Limited (RVL). The club is also waiting to hear what will become of overhead powerlines earmarked to run right through the site.
Pakenham Racing Club chief executive Michael Hodge said the club had been in discussion with the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), Power Grid Option Group (PGOG) and the Cardinia Shire Council about the proposed powerlines.
“There are a number of options on the table,” he said.
Mr Hodge said it was good to have the support of the Cardinia Shire Council.
“We’re delighted with that – it’s a significant part of vision,” he said. “Planning is a critical part of the process and the council takes part in that.”
Mr Hodge quashed rumours that Peet Limited, the club’s major sponsor, had purchased the club’s existing site in Racecourse Road.
“We haven’t sold the site,” he said. “Until we get approval from RVL it would be premature.”
The existing racecourse site in Pakenham is currently included in a Special Use Zone (Tourism and Recreation).
Under the council’s urban design framework, Henry Street could be extended east to Racecourse Road. The council’s preferred option is to use land south of Henry Street for education or higher order medical facilities, high density residential and offices and shops. Land north of Henry Street is earmarked for medium density housing.
The new racecourse site in Tynong is expected to incorporate a racecourse comprising a turf and synthetic race track, horse stables including trainer lots, hotel and convention facility, horse sales facility, industry education and equine centre and an outdoor entertainment area.