The NSW government has unveiled draft plans for the new and world-class public space in Sydney’s east that is set to cut a popular golf course in half.
Following a $50 million investment, the proposal looks to slash Moore Park’s 18-hole golf to create a 20-hectare civic park with features such as a community sporting field, walking, running and cycling paths and trails.
“Delivering Moore Park South is about creating a backyard for the thousands of current and future residents living in one of the densest communities in Australia,” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said.
First look at the $50 million plan to slice Moore Park golf course in half (Fairfax Media)
“Moore Park will continue to offer golf while also providing new amenities, including a community sporting field, walking, running and cycling paths and trails and relaxation and picnic areas.”
An alliance of golf bodies, including Moore Park Golf Club, Golf NSW, Golf Australia and PGA of Australia, have branded itself as the Moore Park Golf Collective and has lobbied against the proposal.
The group launched a counter-proposal to keep the 18-hole golf course whilst also creating a sports and recreation precinct.
“Golf NSW believes the proposal provides a win-win solution for the NSW government and a growing Sydney by offering a multitude of recreational activities, whilst continuing to service the massive demand for publicly accessible golf via an 18-hole course,” he said.
Hollywood A-lister Mark Wahlberg also weighed in on the issue during a trip to Sydney, where he urged people to “save Moore Park Golf Club”.
The park aims to create a public space large enough to match the growing rise in population within 5km of the proposed parkland.
The population within five kilometres of the proposed parkland is projected to rise to nearly 790,000 people by 2041.
This would make it one of the most densely populated areas in Australia.
The project is set to begin after the operating license for Moore Park Golf Course expires in June next year.
The park is set to be completed by late 2028.
