Behind The Plan To Redevelop Wentworth Park Into A Bustling Green Space

Walking distance from some of Sydney’s most beloved spots like the fashionable Glebe markets and bustling Sydney Fish Market, the Wentworth Park Greyhound Track sits across from Blackwattle Bay and stretches across some serious land. Now, with its greyhound racing lease due to expire in 2027, it's been confirmed that the track will be demolished, with new plans for the space to go ahead.

Greyhound racing has had a long history at Wentworth Park. After almost a century of races, the site has become synonymous with the sport in New South Wales. It’s also carried its fair share of controversy—most notably in 2016, when the NSW Government announced a statewide ban on greyhound racing following a damning inquiry into animal welfare and industry practices. The decision was later overturned after intense public and industry backlash, but the event marked a turning point in how the sport was viewed. 

The City of Sydney, however, is wanting to transform this space for more greenery and public community fun and has big dreams for Wentworth Park—envisioning it as a green heart for the inner city rather than a racetrack relic. Under a bold council plan, backed by Lord Mayor Clover Moore, the 13-hectare site has been imagined (sans racetrack) to house a sweeping stretch of parkland once the greyhound lease expires. This looks like lush green spaces dotted with picnic areas, community sporting fields, basketball courts, walking trails, and even wetlands.

The NSW Government has made their final decision. It's now been confirmed that the land will become a new green heart for weekend barbeques for families in the Inner West—the track will be demolished and repurposed. 

Image credit: Martin David