Harness racing in the Riverina received a major boost yesterday when the approval to build a new track on the Cartwright’s Hill site in Wagga was granted by the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel. The strength and prosperity of the region is important for the overall health of the NSW industry and HRNSW CEO John Dumesny welcomed the announcement.
“The decision by the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel will see a new track of international standard built in Wagga and that is great news for the state’s industry and especially those people in the local area,” Mr Dumesny said.
“HRNSW will now await on the pre-construction conditions before the project will go out to tender so I would expect the facility will be ready to conduct race meetings by late 2016 or early 2017 which is quite exciting.”
After concerns were raised by local residents earlier in the year, HRNSW revised its original proposal to allay any apprehension the community was feeling.
“The amended application and the studies conducted before the approval was given were needed but I think it was a common sense decision in the end.
“I think in the fullness of time the local residents will appreciate what we’re doing and will appreciate what we have here because the construction of the facility and the race meetings will not be as concerning as what they might expect.”
The Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel voted three-two in favour of the development.
“This is a $6.5 million project to be built in North Wagga, it highlights the support the region has from the Board and Executive of HRNSW.” Mr Dumesny added.
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