New $20 Million Plan Aims to Revitalize Western Springs Speedway

A new proposal worth $20 million has been unveiled to rejuvenate the historic speedway at Western Springs, which has been a fixture in the community for 97 years. Businessman Terry Michaels, who has owned the Heath & Sports Fitness Club in Morningside for 17 years, has partnered with the Western Springs Speedway Association (WSSA) to create a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the outdoor stadium site.

The initiative comes shortly after American billionaires Bill Foley and Bennett Rosenthal, alongside former All Black player Ali Williams and his entrepreneur wife Anna Mowbray, withdrew from a proposed $200 million to $300 million football stadium project at the same location. The new plan focuses on preserving the speedway track while introducing a modern health and sports complex that may cater to local teams, including Ponsonby Rugby.

Michaels expressed enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing its potential to enhance the community’s sporting facilities. He stated, “The goal is to create a vibrant space that not only supports motorsport but also promotes health and fitness for residents.”

The proposed development aims to reinstate the speedway track, which has attracted motorsport fans for nearly a century. In addition to the track, the new health and sports facility will provide various amenities, including fitness areas and recreational spaces designed to encourage community engagement.

The WSSA has long advocated for the speedway’s preservation, recognizing its significance to the local culture and sporting heritage. The association believes that the redevelopment will not only safeguard the speedway but also stimulate economic growth in the region.

Local government officials have shown interest in the proposal, highlighting its potential benefits to the community. As discussions progress, stakeholders will evaluate the feasibility of the project and explore funding options to bring this vision to fruition.

The timeline for the redevelopment is still being finalized, with the aim to start construction in the coming years contingent on securing necessary approvals and funding. As the project develops, it promises to be a significant milestone for Western Springs, reaffirming its status as a vital hub for sports and community activities in New Zealand.