Keneally gives Clover the word on Harold Park

Lord Mayor Clover Moore has secured an oral commitment from the Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally, to determine planning controls for Harold Park in Glebe.

Ms Moore said she had received an undertaking from the Minister on June 24 that, “the Government will work co-operatively with the City” to find a satisfactory solution.

The Harold Park site covers 10.5ha on the edge of Glebe Foreshore park, and in addition to the trotting facility, includes adjacent historic tramsheds. It is presently owned by the NSW Harness Racing Club, which recently signalled its intentions to sell the property.

In May, the club asked the Minister to determine a concept plan for the site’s rezoning and redevelopment, using her powers under Part 3A of the Environment Planning and Assessment Act. At the time, NSW Harness Racing Club CEO John Dumesny argued this type of approval process would be faster, and allow simultaneous consideration of planning controls and concept plan by the same body.

But critics, such as The Greens’ Cr Chris Harris, argued the prime effect of such a decision would simply have been to increase the value of the property, to the benefit of the racing club.

Part 3A has proven a controversial measure since its introduction by the NSW State Government in July 2005. It allows the Minister for Planning to take planning control over any projects deemed to be ‘critical infrastructure’ or significant to the State. But opponents say the system is vulnerable to abuse, citing inadequate consultation over projects such as the redevelopment of the old Kent Brewery site on Broadway.

During the meeting, Council also resolved to begin the process of developing a Local Environmental Plan for Harold Park. It is expected this will rezone the site, potentially including opportunities for open space, affordable housing, and improved transport and sustainability initiatives.