Minns admits Rosehill deal on thin ice

Controversial plans to sell Rosehill racecourse for $5 billion and build a major housing and entertainment development on the site have been thrown into doubt after NSW premier Chris Minns admitted approval would be dependent on a vote by members of the Australian Turf Club (ATC).

Minns told Parliament during a budget estimates hearing yesterday: “There may well be, as part of the negotiations between ATC and the government, irreconcilable differences particularly in relation to the disposal of property, the size of the rezoning or the density of housing, how much open space is available, what the links are and contact with the Metro line.

“There may be a dealbreaker for one or both of those sides, but in fairness to the government, we made that clear when the announcement was made.

“We see it as a real opportunity for Rosehill racecourse, for the ATC, for racing in the state, as well as housing, but that decision will have to be decided by members of the ATC, not the NSW government.”

In a statement, the ATC said: “As we have stated from the outset the ATC is committed to a long and detailed process and we will continue to work closely with the NSW government on this proposal.”