Media Statement - Antill Golf Course
Posted on: 18.05.2022
Wollondilly Shire Council has reaffirmed its commitment to Antill Golf Course remaining a golf course, confirming that it has no plans to sell off the land at the site and no intent to change its operating model.
“I can categorically confirm our vision is for Antill to remain a golf course and that Council has not even contemplated the potential for it be used for anything other than a golf course,” said Mayor Matt Gould.
“I understand there are community concerns, and want to put these to bed once and for all. This golf course is a wonderful community space and should remain so.”
Due to the fact the lease with the current operators is due to end in early 2023, Council is required by law to openly tender for the operation of the golf course as the current lease has no option for renewal.
CEO Ben Taylor advised, “Council is bound by the Local Government Act and has no choice but to publicly seek Expressions of Interest for the operation of the golf course to ensure an open and transparent process, and the best possible outcome for the Wollondilly community.”
As the lease with the current tenants comes to an end, Council will start the process to re-establish a new lease later this year so it is in place by July 2023.
“Our staff are working closely with the current tenant and have agreed to extend their lease through to the end of June 2023 to allow for a full year of membership while the EOI process proceeds,” said Mr Taylor.
It is open to the current tenants to submit an EOI through the formal process once it commences later in 2022.
There are no plans to sell the land to developers for high density housing or other purposes.
The final decision on the lease, its tenants and the terms and conditions will be reported to and resolved by the elected Council.
Council is required to manage all its land according to the Local Government Act 1993 and has adopted a Policy for managing its public assets, including land, in order to comply with NSW Government requirements.
Council will consider the future of the site in line with the Policy and its obligations to the broader community, going through the public Expression of Interest process for the future operation of the site to ensure the best outcome for the community.