Moore Park Golf Course Plans Stir Up Community Conversation

A proposal to turn 20 hectares of Moore Park Golf Course into public parkland has kicked off plenty of chatter among locals and regular visitors.

Sitting in the city’s inner suburbs, Moore Park has become the centre of an ongoing debate about balancing open green space with existing recreational use.

Moore Park Plans — *Photo Credit: NSWGov/Moore Park Discussion Papers*

A Quick Look Back at Moore Park

Spanning 45 hectares, Moore Park Golf Course represents about 12% of the total Centennial Parklands. The proposal aims to repurpose the golf course’s western boundary and part of the land north of Dacey Avenue into parkland while keeping a 9-hole golf course, driving range, and clubhouse.

This change comes as areas like Waterloo, Zetland, and Green Square experience rapid population growth. Forecasts predict the local population will increase significantly by 2041, adding more pressure on public spaces.

The current lease for Moore Park Golf Course is set to expire in mid-2026, which aligns with the proposed timeline for the transformation.

Moore Park site analysis — *Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Moore Park Discussion Papers*

What’s in the Proposal?

Approximately $939,000 has been allocated for consultancy services to guide the transformation. The vision includes walking tracks, recreational facilities, and open green spaces aimed at addressing the growing need for public outdoor areas.

However, the Moore Park Golf Collective – made up of Golf Australia, PGA of Australia, Golf NSW, and Moore Park Golf Club – has countered with an alternative proposal. They suggest retaining an 18-hole course while slightly modifying it to free up about 15 hectares for public recreational use. Their plan includes tweaks to the driving range and course layout to incorporate walking tracks and play areas.

Moore Park plans for golf entertainment — *Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Moore Park Discussion Papers*

What Locals Are Saying

Community feedback so far has been mixed. Some residents see the transformation as a much-needed step towards more accessible green space in the city’s densely populated suburbs. Others, particularly golf enthusiasts, worry about the potential loss of a longstanding recreational facility.

Local forums and discussions have been lively, with residents voicing both excitement and concerns about how the changes might impact daily life and the park’s historical significance.

Moore Park recreational plans — *Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Moore Park Discussion Papers*

What Happens Next?

Community consultations are ongoing, and further engagement is planned for 2025 to ensure the final design reflects community needs and expectations.

Implementation of the proposed changes is expected to begin after the current lease ends in 2026.

At the end of the day, Moore Park sits at the heart of a broader conversation – how to balance history, recreation, and the growing needs of a busy city. The final outcome, it seems, is still unfolding.

Published 28-Dec-2024

Photo Credit: NSWGov/Moore Park Discussion Paper