The iconic Moonee Valley horse racing track in Australia has been closed with immediate effect, with its grandstand being demolished to make way for 1,000 new homes. The decision to reduce the stand to rubble has been described as “complete sporting madness”, with many horse racing fans upset about the redevelopment of the site.

The Moonee Valley racecourse, which is located in a Melbourne suburb, has hosted horse racing since 1883 and staged its final event before the works in October as Via Sistina won the world-famous Cox Plate. Major works are already underway after Victoria’s minister for planning sanctioned a £100million project that will see part of the plot turned into an area for more than 2,000 apartments.

Australian journalist Gerard Whateley slammed the decision to redevelop the site as he wrote: “What they’re doing at Moonee Valley, ripping up that track, is complete sporting madness.

“They are making a fortune. It’s a decision that is pure genius in the boardroom and on balance sheets but it’s historic vandalism from a racing perspective.

“Of all the things that can’t be done in Victorian racing because of tradition, we are dismantling the theatre that has provided the greatest drama the sport ever saw in this state.”

The racecourse is scheduled to reopen in 2027 and will have a new grandstand and a wider track by that time.

And outlining the reasons for the project in a statement on their website, the Moonee Valley Racing Club explained: “[We are] embarking on a once-in-a-generation transformation, redefining what racing and entertainment precinct can be.

“The Valley has been the beating heart of night racing and home to the legendary Ladbrokes Cox Plate.

“Now, we’re building on that legacy to create a world-class, 365-day destination that celebrates racing, entertainment, community, and connection.

“Our current facilities have served us well, but they’ve reached their twilight years, a 30-year-old track that needs renewal, lighting systems that are outdated and inefficient, and a grandstand more than 50 years old.

“At the centre of this vision is a new Event Centre, an architectural landmark overlooking the winning post that will elevate the race day experience and host events year-round in a vibrant, flexible, contemporary setting.

“The racecourse development will secure the future of racing at The Valley and will include a new track and offer a broad array of amenity for the benefit of club members, residents, and the broader local community to enjoy.

“Complementing the development is Moonee Valley Park (MVP), a thriving new neighbourhood featuring premium residences, green spaces, and hospitality venues such as TOTE Bar & Dining. Together, these elements will ensure The Valley continues to inspire, entertain, and bring people together every day of the year.”