Revised designs have been unveiled for the $40 million upgrade of Wests Tigers’ home ground at Leichhardt Oval, with key figures from all levels of government throwing their support behind the project including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The new designs prepared by Cox Architecture were released this week for a period of public exhibition and feature several key changes from those presented back in April 2025—most notably the removal of the roof from a new grandstand to be built at the northern end of the ground.
The drawings also show a significant number of established fig trees would need to be removed to accommodate the new stand.
According to the NSW Government, the proposed upgrade will transform the iconic suburban venue into a ‘modern hub for community events, professional, and grassroots sports and cement its role as the permanent home for men’s and women’s National Rugby League fixtures for the next 15 years.’
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The upgrade is being jointly funded with $20 million from the Federal Government, $10 million from the NSW Government and $10 million from Inner West Council.
Highlights of the proposed Leichhardt Oval upgrades:
- Renovation of western grandstand with addition of new stadium seating
- Modern hospitality and media facilities
- Four NRL-compliant female-friendly change rooms
- New northern grandstand and replacement of the existing lower seating bowl.
Commenting on the proposed plans Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a well-known NRL and South Sydney fan, said Leichhardt Oval was about more than just sport and well in need of an overhaul.
“Leichhardt Oval was not fit for purpose, these upgrades will make sure that families will be able to enjoy the hallowed ground for generations to come,” he said.
“It’s about the identity of the Inner West, a place where the faithful can go along and cheer their local sporting team, and this upgrade from all three levels of government will ensure that spirit is preserved.”
NSW Government
Pending final planning approval, construction is expected to begin at conclusion of the 2026 rugby league season with the new facilities set to open in 2028.
A public exhibition period is open until 12 February allowing inner west locals and fans to have their say on the plans for the iconic suburban ground.