Tasracing will commence work immediately on a new proposal for greyhound and harness facilities that suit the daily requirements of north-west coast-based trainers.
Tasracing CEO Andrew Jenkins said significant project cost increases had made the current tracks development proposed for land adjacent to the Devonport Airport unaffordable and it would no longer proceed.
“The total anticipated cost of the proposed project increased from the initial assessment of $18 million ($10 million capital funding contribution from Tasracing and $8 million from the Tasmanian Government) to an estimated $38.6 million in September 2023, including the cost of purchasing the 27-hectare construction location,” he said.
“It is likely that the estimate will have increased further, which is why Tasracing advised the Tasmanian Government that it was not financially prudent to proceed.”
Mr Jenkins said proceeding with the project would jeopardise the sustainability of Tasracing’s operations as the state’s Principal Racing Authority and by extension the Tasmanian racing industry.
“Tasracing has briefed industry stakeholders and participants about the decision and will commence work on an amended plan with these stakeholders immediately,” he said.
“Tasracing’s shareholder ministers have requested the company provide advice on a solution that will met the needs of industry, which we will provide as soon as practical.”