Design of Leichhardt Oval upgrade progressing well
Thursday 27 February 2025
Media release
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne
Inner West Council is making steady progress in designing the long-awaited renovation of Leichhardt Oval with Ernst and Young having been appointed as project managers and Cox Architecture brought on board to finalise the concept designs for the upgrade.
Ernst and Young (EY) bring their experience from overseeing big stadium projects including Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium and the new Penrith Stadium.
Cox Architecture bring a wealth of expertise and some serious runs on the board when it comes to designing and redesigning some of Australia’s most outstanding sporting venues.
Just some of their past designs include, Allianz Stadium, AAMI Park in Melbourne, The Adelaide Oval, Optus Stadium in Perth, Country Bank Stadium in Townsville and the Rod Laver Arena.
Cox were previously responsible for delivering the Leichhardt Oval Masterplan in consultation with Council’s Stakeholder Design Panel, which includes:
- Wests Tigers
- Sydney FC
- Sydney FC Women
- APIA Leichhardt
- A-League
- NRL
- NSWRL
At the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, Cox will be putting their unique stamp on a brand-new northern grandstand as well as upgrades to the existing western grandstand including, upgraded seating, a new rear mezzanine level, upgraded female-friendly player facilities as well as new corporate and media amenities.
While the historic Wayne Pearce Hill and Keith Barnes Stand will be preserved, Cox has been tasked with improving the spectator experience throughout the ground including upgraded seating, catering, toilet facilities and access to and from the ground as part of the contract.
Inner West Council also intends to trial Leichhardt Oval as a live music and performance venue and Cox will take this into account in their design concepts.
The concept designs are due to be delivered in April 2025. Council will consult with its Stakeholder Design Panel to finalise the design. Whether to undertake construction in 1 stage or 2 will be determined by Council once the designs are finalised.
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said, “Securing the funding from the Federal and State Governments to save Leichardt Oval was a big win for fans of all the men’s and women’s elite and community sport played at Australia’s most hardworking ground.
“While we have a fraction of the funding that other stadiums have received, we are taking great care to get the planning and design of this renovation right.
“Lovers of Leichhardt Oval and sports fans of all kinds will be excited to see the design concepts that’ll we’ll release soon.”
More details on Cox Architecture sporting arena designs can be found here.
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For media enquiries please contact Jonny Browne, Jonny.Browne@innerwest.nsw.gov.au