Anger from Sydney’s swing vote: Moore Park golf course carve-up begins

The truncated Moore Park golf course will make its debut this week as the Minns government pushes ahead with its divisive plan to carve up the fairways to create a new park in Sydney’s east.

Workers will fence off part of the course to create the parkland from Wednesday, temporarily shrinking the 18-hole golf course to 10 holes before the final 12-hole layout is completed next year.

The perimeter fence along South Dowling Street and Dacey Avenue will be ripped down, enabling the public to easily access the 20-hectare civic park that will be created at Moore Park South.

Furious golfers have for years railed against the proposal to convert part of the course into a park, as citywide plans for more intensive development put pressure on swaths of land used for the sport.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully said: “Today marks the start of a new era for Moore Park South as a backyard for thousands of people in one of Australia’s most densely populated communities.

“In just a few weeks, the public will be able to enjoy access to a new off-leash dog area, green open space and picnic area, with more to come.”

Premier Chris Minns and City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore have argued the new parkland is required to provide more green space for residents of nearby apartments.

But Moore Park Golf Club and golfers have criticised the plan as unnecessary given the site’s proximity to Centennial Park.

Moore Park Golf Club deputy president Jared Kendler said in May staff were “bitterly disappointed” the government had not considered alternative proposals to keep the 18-hole course and the park. He warned the government’s plan “could be careening towards the worst of worst outcomes”.

The club’s operating lease for the course expired on June 30.

Draft plans included a rejigged nine-hole golf course. But the government in May revealed its final designs for a 12-hole course, following feedback from sporting groups, the community and councils.

The 12-hole course will retain its finish at Golf House, and facilities will include an expanded 90-bay driving range, an 18-hole mini-golf course, and putting and chipping greens.

A minimum of nine holes will be available to play until the 12-hole course opens in 2027.

The completed park will include bike and pedestrian paths, a community sports field, nature playground, public toilets, space for food kiosks, lighting and outdoor fitness equipment.

The government worked with Golf NSW and golf architect Harley Kruse to devise the 12-hole course.

The club told its members the site would temporarily operate as