The New South Wales government has revealed ambitious draft plans to transform a substantial portion of Sydney’s eastern landscape into a state-of-the-art public space, significantly altering a well-loved golf course in the process.

With a substantial investment of $50 million, the proposal aims to reduce Moore Park’s existing 18-hole golf course to make way for a sprawling 20-hectare civic park. This new development will boast a variety of features, including a community sports field, as well as walking, running, and cycling paths.

“The creation of Moore Park South is about providing a vibrant outdoor space for the many current and future residents in one of Australia’s most densely populated areas,” stated Paul Scully, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces.

He assured that while Moore Park will continue to accommodate golf enthusiasts, the new facilities will add a community sports field, extensive paths for walking, running, and cycling, along with areas designated for relaxation and picnics.

However, the proposal has met resistance from a coalition of golfing organizations, including Moore Park Golf Club, Golf NSW, Golf Australia, and the PGA of Australia. This group, known as the Moore Park Golf Collective, has actively opposed the government’s plans.

The group launched a counter-proposal to keep the 18-hole golf course whilst also creating a sports and recreation precinct.

“Golf NSW believes the proposal provides a win-win solution for the NSW government and a growing Sydney by offering a multitude of recreational activities, whilst continuing to service the massive demand for publicly accessible golf via an 18-hole course,” he said.

Hollywood A-lister Mark Wahlberg also weighed in on the issue during a trip to Sydney, where he urged people to “save Moore Park Golf Club”.

The park aims to create a public space large enough to match the growing rise in population within 5km of the proposed parkland.

The population within five kilometres of the proposed parkland is projected to rise to nearly 790,000 people by 2041.

This would make it one of the most densely populated areas in Australia.

The project is set to begin after the operating license for Moore Park Golf Course expires in June next year.

The park is set to be completed by late 2028.