Shoalhaven Council backs motorsport complex

Shoalhaven City Council has endorsed the proposed motorsport facility for Yerriyong, on the outskirts of Nowra, NSW, according to a report in the South Coast Register.

The application seeks the formation a $19 million motorsports facility, comprising the upgrade and extension of the existing Nowra District Motorcycle Club and the construction of a new sealed road racing track with administration buildings and parking.

The Shoalhaven Motorsport Complex, a two-hour drive from Sydney,  would not only bring together the varying disciplines of motorcycle sport but also numerous forms of car competition and kart racing.

It is envisaged that the complex, run by Motorcycling New South Wales (MNSW), will also be able to facilitate other community activities including cycling, fun runs, rider and driver training, corporate events, school-based activities and television and film production.

“The motorsports facility will provide the area with a state of the art motorsport hub with the ability to host racing at a national standard, providing a range of flow on benefits to the entire Shoalhaven,” Shoalhaven mayor Joanna Gash was quoted as saying in the South Coast Register. “The motorsports complex will generate economic growth and create ongoing economic activity, with local businesses directly benefiting through increased demand for goods and services.

“The development will also deliver a high class recreational facility with all residents able to benefit from tourism and increased visitation to our city.

“Over the past two years, Motorcycling NSW have shown that they are committed to this city and the community has shown widespread support for the plan.

“I am pleased that the noise and amenity concerns raised during the community consultation process have been addressed in the development consent and that the application has been amended to reduce the ecological impact and improve conservation outcomes.

“The recommendation by council’s regional development committee represents a significant project milestone and major step towards construction of this exciting facility.”

The Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel will meet in Nowra on Wednesday, June 29 to make a determination on the proposal.

In December 2015, the federal government pledged $9.532m towards construction of the venue under the National Stronger Regions Funding initiative.

We'll keep you posted on the outcome of the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel meeting.