The decision to ban greyhound racing in NSW could begin one of the biggest bidding sagas in the state’s history.
The prime piece of land at Wentworth Park will now become the subject of interest from several groups.
While the Sydney Kings have the strongest connection to the site, potential interest from Sydney FC, the Sydney Roosters and Sydney Swans could certainly make for an interesting bidding war.
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New South Wales Premier Mike Baird has promised that the area will remain under the government’s control, meaning that a publicly owned arena or sporting facility is certainly likely.
With greyhound racing the main use of Wentworth Park, the ground will struggle without the sport’s support and this will almost certainly mean a major upgrade or complete redevelopment of the site.
A new indoor arena is likely at this point but the idea of a boutique stadium or elite training facility could also be potential options.
After being forced out of their home last year, the Sydney Kings are searching for a new permanent arena and have identified Wentworth Park as the ideal location. Having played at the now demolished Sydney Entertainment Centre, the Kings are now based at Homebush, their home ground for two years between 1999 and 2000.
While they could stay at the Qudos Bank Arena adjacent to ANZ Stadium, a more CBD-based indoor arena could not only help the Sydney Kings, but also the NSW Swifts as part of the new National Netball League.
The versatility of a unique indoor sporting arena could also mean that events such as tennis and ice hockey can be hosted, right in the heart of the CBD.
A boutique stadium could have a similar effect. With several small rugby, league and football clubs based in and around the CBD, a boutique rectangular stadium similar to Melbourne’s AAMI Park. There is a need for a stadium such as this in Sydney but whether or not it is a priority is another question.
While this is one of the more unlikely options, it is something that could certainly be on the table, particularly if the power of three separate sporting codes combine.
If they can’t get a stadium however, the consideration for an elite training facility could definitely be entertained. With CBD open park areas limited, the opportunity to base club facilities right near the heart of the city could be highly tempting.
All four Sydney football codes could put in a bid to build facilities on the grounds of the dog track.
In the coming months, there is certainty that the ground will be circled by a variety of sporting clubs and associations although a decision may be a few years away.
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