The final design concepts of upgrades for the iconic inner western Sydney venue, Leichhardt Oval, have been released.
The designs revealed new, updated and wide-ranging facilities for clubs, players and spectators across the stadium, with a particular focus on women’s sport.
As part of the upgrades, a new northern grandstand will be built, and the lower seating bowl will receive fresh modern seating.
Additionally, the Western grandstand will receive a significant renovation which will include:
- All-new stadium seating
- All-new corporate, media and media facilities
Financing the upgrades to Leichhardt Oval is a funding agreement between the Federal, State and local government. To deliver the project, the Inner West Council and NSW State government have both committed $10 million to the Oval, while the Federal government has put forth $20 million.
The upgrades have been designed by two project managers, Ernst and Young, and Cox Architecture.
Member for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek highlighted the importance of Leichhardt Oval for the Inner West in a statement.
“Australians love spending time outdoors, getting together with family and friends to watch a game, or cheer on the next generation,” she said.
“Leichhardt Oval is a place for world class games – and it deserves world class facilities. This new development will mean there are top quality facilities for everyone to enjoy, including schools and women and girls’ teams.
“That’s why Labor has committed $20 million to support these vital upgrades. We want to make sure the Oval is a community hub into the future.”
Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne, detailed the impact the upgrades would have.
“These designs keep the heritage and character of our famous ground while bringing the facilities for players, spectators and sports clubs up to modern standards,” he said.
“This will make the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ one of the highest quality suburban grounds in Australia while taking the unbeatable atmosphere there to another level.
“We are ready to deliver a renovation that will secure the future of Leichhardt Oval for another 50 years to come.”
Primarily a rugby league stadium and a home to the West Tigers, Leichhardt Oval also has a long history of hosting soccer games. Currently, Leichhardt Oval hosts Australia Cup games and is one of Sydney FC’s homes in the A-League Women. Additionally, the ground formerly hosted both Sydney Olympic FC and A.P.I.A Leichhardt during the NSL.
To learn more about the new upgrades, read the final designs HERE.
