Final designs for the long-awaited upgrade of Sydney’s historic Leichhardt Oval are now on public exhibition, with sports fans and Inner West residents invited to make submissions before the consultation period closes on February 12.
The plans have been released by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure as part of a State Significant Development Application for the refurbishment of the much-loved suburban ground, following years of funding negotiations and advocacy aimed at securing its future.
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said the exhibition marked a significant milestone for a project that has faced repeated uncertainty. “After years of fighting to save Leichhardt Oval our plans for the much-needed renovation are progressing well,” Byrne said. “The final plans are now on public exhibition and I encourage all Wests Tigers and sports fans to make a submission to help us secure the future of the eighth wonder of the world. This is their chance to save our beloved ground.”
Often affectionately dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, Leichhardt Oval has long been regarded as one of Sydney’s most atmospheric sporting venues, particularly for rugby league.
The proposed upgrade aims to transform the ground into a modern hub for elite and community sport, catering to both men’s and women’s competitions across multiple codes.
Under the plans, the Wests Tigers are locked in to play both NRL and NRLW matches at the venue for the next 15 years, reinforcing the ground’s role as a long-term home for the club and a centrepiece of sport in the Inner West. Supporters are expected to retain the close-to-the-action experience the ground is known for, alongside improved comfort and facilities.
Upgrades include new grandstands, seating & facilities for women
Planned improvements include the renovation of the historic western grandstand with new stadium seating, and the replacement of all seating throughout the ground with modern stadium seating. The design also incorporates upgraded hospitality and media facilities, as well as four NRL-compliant women-friendly change rooms — a key inclusion as women’s elite sport continues to expand.
A new northern grandstand is proposed, along with the replacement of the lower seating bowl with a new 1,500-seat stand, increasing amenity while maintaining the venue’s traditional suburban character.
If approved, construction is due to commence after the 2026 season, with works scheduled to be completed ahead of kick-off for the 2028 season. The timeline is designed to minimise disruption to scheduled fixtures while allowing for a comprehensive redevelopment.
The exhibition period follows years of debate over the future of Leichhardt Oval, with concerns previously raised about ageing infrastructure, compliance with modern safety standards, and the viability of hosting professional sport without significant investment. Funding commitments from multiple levels of government were ultimately secured after sustained campaigning by Inner West Council and community supporters.
Earlier concept designs focused on modernising player facilities, improving accessibility, and upgrading spectator amenities, while retaining the heritage elements that have made the ground a cultural and sporting landmark for generations of fans.
The community exhibition is open until Thursday, 12 February 2026. Community members are invited to review the final designs and lodge submissions through the NSW Planning Portal.
You can find the portal at planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/leichhardt-oval-refurbishment.
