Council endorses Lockyer Valley Racing Precinct Masterplan Design
Lockyer Valley Regional Council has endorsed a revised Masterplan Design Report for the proposed Lockyer Valley Racing Precinct, providing a planning framework to inform future consideration of potential development options at the Gatton site.
The new Masterplan Design Report comes after Racing Queensland and Lockyer Valley Regional Council commissioned a revision of the 2021 Masterplan to deliver a refined scheme with renewed focus on racing, training, community, educational activities, racing-related hospitality and commercial opportunities.
The masterplan assessed numerous development scenarios to understand how the site could respond to the technical requirements for racing, flood constraints and long-term land use opportunities. The ‘Major Development’ option was identified as the preferred design framework.
Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Lockyer Valley Equine Collaborative Chris Wilson said the work is intended to support informed discussion with stakeholders on the potential staged development of the site for racing and other uses.
“While endorsement of the report is a positive step, it does not constitute a commitment to proceed,” Cr Wilson said.
“Any progression of the precinct would be subject to alignment with the recently completed Queensland Racing Review 2025, external funding availability and agreement between all parties.”
The masterplan option provides opportunity to upgrade the race tracks and other design elements to address flood risks from nearby Lockyer Creek.
“The preferred masterplan allows room for future staged expansion and provides more space for community and patron facilities into the future, such as parking, a parkland/walking track and training and educational synergies like a vet room,” Cr Wilson said.
“An expansion of the facility would deliver major economic benefits to the Lockyer Valley and beyond and improve the racing industry in booming South East Queensland.
“Council is playing a key role as facilitator with land available for the precinct and would be looking for external funding to make this a reality.”
The next steps for the project is to conduct an economic impact assessment to quantify the economic benefits to the community, particularly long-term industry sustainability, and the broader economic and employment benefits associated with infrastructure investment at the site.
The Lockyer Valley Equine Collaborative features representatives from Racing Queensland, Lockyer Valley Turf Club, University of Queensland, Regional Development Australia Ipswich & West Moreton and Lockyer Valley Regional Council.
