September 9, 2025: The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) has approved a proposal for a new Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) clubhouse at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, even as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) pursues its ambitious plan to create a 120-acre central park on the site. The clearance was granted in August, with the minutes of the decision made public online last week.
According to meeting records cited in a Hindustan Times report, the project complies with provisions of the BMC’s Development Plan 2034. The designated plot lies within the residential and commercial zone of the blueprint. Earlier land reservations that had restricted construction have now been deleted, clearing the way for development.
A state government notification issued in October 2024 divided the racecourse into seven subplots. Four—A, B, C and a—are under state ownership, while three—D, E and F—belong to the BMC. The proposed clubhouse will be located on Plot F, which measures 1,30,207 square metres.
Plans show the clubhouse will cover 9,329 sq m, with a total built-up area of 65,654 sq m. Of this, 40,258 sq m will be counted as Floor Space Index (FSI) area and 25,395 sq m as non-FSI. Facilities include a clubhouse, gymkhana, banquet hall and upgraded spectator stands. A multi-level enclosure stand with basement parking, garages and stables will also be part of the complex. The gymkhana will feature lodging rooms, service floors and recreational amenities such as a gymnasium, swimming pool, departmental store and viewing deck.
Alongside, the BMC’s central park will provide botanical gardens, jogging tracks, landscaped water bodies and cultural spaces, ensuring uninterrupted views of the racecourse. Together, the projects are set to reimagine Mahalaxmi Racecourse as both a public recreational hub and an exclusive lifestyle destination.
Source: The Free Press Journal
