By BRIDGET COOK
A HOTEL, veterinary clinic and extensive horse stabling are among ideas being floated to enhance Cranbourne’s thriving racing industry.
The City of Casey is currently proposing a potential zone change at the Cranbourne Racing Complex and surrounding sites to pave the way for future development at the site.
The rezoning to a Special Use Zone would allow the council and Cranbourne Recreation Reserve Committee of Management to more clearly plan for the future of the site.
The News has heard of future visions for the site including an entertainment and tourism precinct including a hotel and a veterinary clinic and extensive horse stabling precinct to support the racing industry.
The redevelopment also takes in the old Cranbourne pool site, with reports that it could be turned into a gym.
City of Casey acting manager strategic development Kathryn Seirlis said that the rezoning was being applied to more clearly guide the land use direction for the area.
“The proposed changes are consistent with the zoning of other major racecourses across Victoria,” she said.
“It will result in job opportunities being created and supports the ongoing development of the significant racing and equestrian industries in the City of Casey.
“Importantly, the changes identify where open space will be a focus.
“It is envisaged that these areas will be upgraded for the benefit of Casey residents with improved vegetation outcomes (habitat for birds and animals) and construction of walking paths, for example.”
Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive Neil Bainbridge said the potential change to the planning scheme would provide more certainty with what could and could not be achieved at the racing centre and surrounding land.
“For the racing codes, it gives us clarity for future uses,” he said.
“The current zoning prohibits us in many ways, in particular it prohibits the establishment of a veterinary hospital on site.
“This is 460 acres in the centre of Cranbourne that we need to strategically plan.
“The amended zone would be good for racing related industry uses, but also identifies areas we need to protect and enhance with flora and fauna corridors.”
Mr Bainbridge said the Cranbourne Recreation Reserve Committee of Management felt that the area in question was an important piece of land in the heart of Cranbourne and the Special Use Zone would allow it to reach its full potential.
“This will allow the reserve to grow and expand in our point of view,” he said.
“It makes way for potential on-course stabling, clarity on the potential for a veterinary practice and other possible investments to support the racing industry in this area, which is arguably the biggest industry in the City of Casey.
“We will also be mindful of the important community values this land has.”
The City of Casey recently exhibited the amended Casey Planning Scheme to the Cranbourne community, with the proposed rezoning.
The council received 20 submissions with some concerns raised about the impact on nearby residential areas, maintaining public access and ensuring the enhancement of biodiversity of the area.
The council will now request that the Minister for Planning appoint a panel to consider submissions to the amended planning scheme.
