Eurobodalla Council will consider a report to sell Moruya Racecourse at its meeting on Tuesday 13 August.
Racing NSW, the state’s independent body responsible for thoroughbred racing, has approached Council to purchase the parcel of land at Donnelly Drive, Moruya.
Moruya Jockey Club supports the proposal.
Council’s manager of property and commercial services Andrew Greenway said the proposed purchase was a part of Racing NSW $98.5M investment in racing across NSW.
“In making the offer to Council, Racing NSW has indicated the land would continue to be used indefinitely for the purpose of thoroughbred racing and training, with the land subject to a 50-year lease to the Moruya Jockey Club, who have given full support to the proposed sale,” Mr Greenway said.
“Currently the jockey club pay rent to Council, which is given back to the Moruya Racecourse Management Committee for reinvestment at the racecourse.
“A significant portion of the existing buildings and improvements at the racecourse were provided by Racing NSW grants. The purchase of the racecourse is part of their plans for further investment.”
Mr Greenway said the report recommends the community have an opportunity to comment on the sale.
“During the public notice period, Council will offer to meet with racecourse stakeholders, including trainers and residents of Donnelly Drive,” he said.
Owners of the adjacent freehold dwellings would continue to have right of carriageway access via Donnelly Drive, and Racing NSW has confirmed it does not object to St John’s Ambulance use of a building at the racecourse under existing conditions.
A further report will be presented to Council following the proposed 28-day public exhibition period.
The report to Council can be viewed on Council’s website https://www.esc.nsw.gov.au/inside-council/council/meetings
