New Working Group to Plan Sydney's Future Greyhound Racing Hub
Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) has taken a significant step forward in securing the future of the sport in the state's capital, with the establishment of the Sydney Metropolitan Racing Precinct (SMRP) working group. This newly formed body has been tasked with a critical mission: to evaluate all potential options and alternatives for the industry once racing activities permanently cease at the iconic Wentworth Park venue.
Imminent Closure Drives Urgent Planning
The formation of this strategic working group comes directly in response to a major announcement made by the NSW Government in late 2025. Officials confirmed that the existing lease for Wentworth Park would not be renewed upon its expiration in September 2027. This decision has created an urgent need for the industry to identify and develop a new premier metropolitan venue to serve as its central hub.
"As an industry we absolutely require a premier metropolitan venue," emphasised GRNSW chief executive officer Steve Griffin. "There are multiple viable options that demand close and careful scrutiny. Consistent with our recent approach to shaping the industry's future, we are committed to incorporating input from a wide range of stakeholders and active participants."
Comprehensive Evaluation of Requirements and Costs
The working group's primary objective is to provide GRNSW with detailed, actionable advice on what should be constructed to replace the ageing Wentworth Park facility. This guidance will be instrumental in determining both the likely financial cost of establishing the new precinct and the size of the land parcel that will be necessary to accommodate it.
"The first and most fundamental question we must answer is precisely what we, as a collective industry, want and need from this new facility," Griffin explained. The planning process will involve a multifaceted analysis, factoring in several key elements:
- The total project costs and the financial compensation expected from the government for vacating the Wentworth Park site.
- The optimal geographical location for the new precinct within the metropolitan area.
- The specific type of racing facility and track design required for modern greyhound racing.
- The potential inclusion of additional, value-adding services such as an on-site veterinary practice, boarding kennels, and dedicated education and training facilities for participants.
Ambitious Timeline for a New Racing Future
GRNSW has set an ambitious timeline for this crucial project. The organisation is hopeful that comprehensive plans for the new Sydney Metropolitan Racing Precinct will be developed and a final location secured before the conclusion of 2026. Achieving this milestone would mean the entire greyhound racing community will know exactly what is going to be built, where it will be situated, and an estimated timeframe for when it will be ready for operational use.
This forward-planning initiative represents a pivotal moment for greyhound racing in New South Wales, as it seeks to transition from a historic venue to a modern, purpose-built facility designed to sustain and grow the sport for future generations.
