“If they can’t make Eastern Creek work, how do they have a hope of making something work in Nowra?” he asked.

Cr Fergusson was responding to the formation of a committee to explore the feasibility of a motor racing track after interest in such a facility was shown by the Confederation of Australian Motor Sports.

“Eastern Creek continues to be burning a hole in NSW taxpayers’ pockets despite being centrally located in western Sydney, with a huge population base to support it,” he said.

“It’s difficult to contemplate that a high-cost, high-maintenance and seldom used facility would have any economic justification.”

Cr Fergusson said there would also be enormous environment obstacles to overcome before the proposed track could become a reality.

Cr Fergusson’s comments put him at odds with Crs Greg Watson and Gareth Ward, who both championed the idea.

The council committee charged with exploring the proposal will include economic development manager Greg Pullen, tourism manager Tom Phillips, Roger Walker, Paul Sutton and Trevor Bridge.