Artist's impression of Gloucester Park's proposed grandstand overlooking both the track and the Swan River
West Australian Trotting Association (trading as Gloucester Park Harness Racing - GPHR) members have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a proposal to facilitate the revitalisation of Gloucester Park.
75% on the membership voted in the referendum with over 80% of those Members who voted supporting the Committee’s proposal to finalise the sale of a parcel of land to property group Hesperia, the first step in a deal which unlocks a number of benefits for Gloucester Park.
Members were given seven weeks to consider the detailed proposal, whereby there will be new facilities and infrastructure delivered for Members, patrions and participants. A key component of the facilities will be Gloucester Theatre, which, once completed, will feature dual views over the track, and across the Swan River to Optus Stadium. The Theatre will also provide dedicated state-of-the-art member facilities, plus a range of entertainment and hospitality experiences that will activate the Swan River seven days a week as well as providing a key tourism focal point anchoring the Matagarup Bridge, promoting Gloucester Park as a destination.
Racing and Wagering WA (RWWA)’s support of the proposal has been critical in improving the racing experience for participants. RWWA’s contribution of $24.7 million as part of the proposal will fund new racing infrastructure, including stables, float parking, LED track lighting, track upgrades and parade ring, and will lead to a better experience for members and spectators, and further improvements to animal welfare.
Heritage assets will also be repurposed, including a proposed museum in the historic totalisator building.
Hesperia will now commence thorough site investigations and due diligence, and on completion anticipate that the transaction will be finalised over the coming 9 months.
GPHR CEO Michael Radley said “We’re thrilled that so many of our members share our vision for what Gloucester Park could be and have endorsed our plan. Continued racing at Gloucester Park has always been our focus, and this plan allows us to do that while setting us up for long-term future success.”
