Leichhardt Oval Set for $40M Revamp as Final Designs Released
Image: Leichhardt Oval Artist Rendition source: press release
The Inner West’s beloved Leichhardt Oval is set for a major transformation, with final designs for a multimillion-dollar renovation released this week. The long-awaited plans promise to modernise the aging venue while preserving the historic character that earned it the nickname “the eighth wonder of the world.”
Backed by $40 million in joint funding from the Commonwealth, NSW Government, and Inner West Council, the project will see significant upgrades to player, spectator, and media facilities. The centrepiece of the redevelopment is a complete overhaul of the Western Grandstand, which will feature new NRL-compliant change rooms, a mezzanine-level gym, improved accessibility, and upgraded corporate and media amenities.
“These designs keep the heritage and character of our famous ground while bringing the facilities up to modern standards,” said Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne. “This will make Leichhardt Oval one of the highest quality suburban grounds in Australia.”
A brand-new northern grandstand with 1,500 seats and improved food, beverage, and amenity offerings is also in the works. Meanwhile, the entire lower seating bowl will be replaced with modern stadium seating, including multiple wheelchair-accessible viewing areas.
“Leichhardt Oval is a place for world-class games,”
The upgrade will also include the Inner West Museum of Rugby League, celebrating the legacy of local foundational clubs like Balmain, Newtown, and Glebe. A renovated caretaker’s cottage will house immersive exhibits, with a virtual museum component to broaden access.
Construction is expected to begin after the 2026 winter sports season, with completion targeted for 2028.
Federal MP for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek, called the investment a commitment to community life. “Leichhardt Oval is a place for world-class games – and it deserves world-class facilities. This development will ensure it remains a community hub for generations.”
The design has been developed by Ernst and Young and Cox Architecture, leveraging experience from major stadium projects like CommBank and Allianz Stadiums. A State Significant Development Application will be submitted to the NSW Government later this year.
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