Leichhardt Oval in inner Sydney is set for a $40 million facelift that should secure its future as a suburban sports ground.
Funding for the project is coming from the federal government ($20m), NSW government ($10m) and Inner West Council ($10m).
Home to the Wests Tigers NRL club, the Lilyfield-based ground is to get 2300 new seats and renovations to its western grandstand, modern hospitality and media facilities, four new female change rooms, a new northern grandstand and new seating in the lower bowl.
It is not expected to increase its current 19,000-person capacity under the plan: click here to view the assessment report.
The state government fast-tracked the application by declaring it to be of ‘state significance’ (taking approval out of local council hands) given the project cost is greater than the $30m threshold for a declaration.
Under the plan, 13 trees are to be be removed from the northern grandstand with 33 new canopy trees to be planted which will take 10 years to provide slightly greater shade.
Of 22 submissions received for the project’s environmental impact statement, 10 objected and six supported the proposal; concerns centred around the trees, car parking, heritage impact and traffic.
LEICHHARDT OVAL’S ROLE ‘PRESERVED’
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the funding means Leichhardt Oval can remain a part of Sydney’s Inner West “for generations to come”.
Federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells says the ground’s future is now secure.
“This investment secures the future of Leichhardt Oval and makes it a better place for everyone, from the grassroots to elite men’s and women’s sport.”
NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully says the design “upgrades the facilities but keeps fans close to the action”.
“This approval means work can kick off to deliver a facility that respects the history of this ground … with modern facilities.”
Upcoming events planned for the oval this year include NRL and club rugby games (including the women’s Super Rugby final).
WHAT OTHERS SAID
Sport Minister Steve Kamper says they want to see the oval remain a “great suburban sporting ground”.
“From packed hill crowds to unforgettable moments, Leichhardt Oval earned its place in the hearts of fans but it’s also a thriving community asset and a venue where women’s and grassroot sport continue to flourish.”
Federal MP for Sydney Tanya Plibersek claims the upgrades will ensure the ground remains “one of Sydney’s most loved” for years to come.
“This project that means so much to the people of the Inner West. I am excited to see work kick off soon.”
State MP for Summer Hill Jo Haylen says it is “a huge win for the Inner West”.
“Local clubs, junior athletes and Tigers fans have waited a long time for a ground that matches their passion. Now they are getting it.”
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne says: “Better than a red-letter day, this is a black-and-gold day for West Tigers fans – their spiritual home has been saved.
“The (Leichhardt oval renovation is bigger than the Tigers. After a long community fight, we can ensure the venue will be safe with better seating and facilities for all sports, including major women’s sporting events.”
Construction is due to start after the 2026 National Rugby League (NRL) season, finish in time for the 2028 season kick-off and create 130 jobs.
For full project details, visit the NSW Planning Portal.
