A former mine site at Lake Macquarie will be transformed into a motorsport tourism park as part of its rehabilitation, with the first sod expected to be turned at the site on Tuesday March 26.
Black Rock Motor Resort at the old Rhondda Colliery will feature a world-class 5.25km driving circuit designed by global F1 track design leader Tilke Group, a driver training centre, go-kart racing, adventure tourism experiences, a function centre, short-term accommodation, and a cafe.
It will be Australia's first dedicated recreation resort for motoring enthusiasts, creating more than 450 jobs during construction and 229 permanent roles, the government said in a statement on Tuesday morning.
Black Rock Motor Resort CEO and founder Tony Palmer said the facility would be a world class adventure tourism destination.
"Black Rock Motor Resort will provide a range of motoring experiences including driver safety training for the young motorists of the region as well as exciting opportunities for the public to drive their own cars, or our cars, on the high-speed circuit," he said.
Rhondda Colliery commenced underground and open-cut mining activities in the late 1800s before ceasing operations in 1971.
Natural Resources Minister Courtney Houssos said the project would generate hundreds of jobs and "tens of millions of dollars of economic activity".
"Mining has long been a source of economic prosperity for NSW," she said.
"As mines close, the government is committed to ensuring sites are rehabilitated safely, and the land put to new and productive use for the local community."
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the plan was "a smart, exciting" example of former mine site rehabilitation and use.
"We know motorsport lovers will travel and spend their money when they know they're getting the best," she said.
"It's fantastic to see Lake Macquarie step up and offer locals and visitors from across the country and overseas the best in motorsport and tourism."
The first sod is expected to be turned at the site later on Tuesday.
