By Shelby Brooks
The world class motorsport complex slated for McGregor Road in Pakenham has hit a roadblock, with circuit developers Podium 1 pulling out of the project.
Cardinia mayor Brett Owen confirmed last week that the development of The Cardinia Motor Recreation and Education Park would open to a tender process again shortly.
“The council remains committed to facilitating the development of the Cardinia Motorsports Education and Recreation Park,” Mayor Owen said.
“The council is planning to undertake a tender process to determine the level of interest in the project to guide and inform the future decisions of the council.”
The land still has the necessary planning permissions to build a FIM/FIA graded race track – capable of accommodating V8 Supercars and Formula 1 training.
“We know how excited the Cardinia Shire and broader motorsport community is for this project to get up and running,” Mayor Owen said.
“We’re working hard behind the scenes to ensure we find the right partner to deliver this world-class motor sport precinct in our area.”
Podium 1 could not be contacted for comment.
A planning application for stage 1 of the project was approved by Cardinia Shire Council on 17 August 2020, which would have seen project developer Podium 1 build a 3.6km track, large pit building at ground level which would have comprised of 33 garages, a hospitality area and a viewing deck that would have expanded for most of the length of the floor.
The race track itself was going to have the ability to be spit up into two smaller circuits, each averaging 1.8 kilometres and would have included a drag straight and rallycross circuit.
“We are ecstatic with the result last night,” Podium 1 chief operations officer Felicity Richardson said in August.
“It is a great outcome for the Podium 1 team after three extensive years of work.”
Cardinia Motorsports Complex is expected to host between five and ten motor racing events annually and will be able to facilitate up to 60,000 visitors.
Pakenham Auto Club president Leon Prosser said it was disappointing to learn about the setback.
“It is disappointing that it hasn’t proceeded but we’re hopeful someone else will take up the project,“ Mr Prosser said.
“It’s great to hear the council are still very enthusiastic about the project and the Pakenham Auto Club and the Kooweerup Motorbike Club are both grateful for their support.“
