Leichhardt Oval upgrade underway as historic ground closes for refurbishment

Preliminary works have commenced on the $40 million redevelopment of Leichhardt Oval, with the historic Sydney ground now closed as its long-awaited transformation moves into delivery.

Inner West Council has confirmed the refurbishment is underway, with public access to the stadium’s famous hill also suspended during the works.

The project will modernise player and spectator facilities while retaining the suburban character that has made Leichhardt Oval one of rugby league’s most recognisable venues.

Council’s latest project update, published on 14 October, lists completion in 2028. Earlier announcements targeted reopening ahead of the 2028 season, although the current update does not specify an opening date.

The works include refurbishment of the historic western grandstand, with upgraded player and spectator facilities and a new lift to improve accessibility.

A new northern grandstand and reconfigured lower seating bowl are also planned, alongside replacement stadium seating incorporating accessible positions.

Four new multipurpose changerooms will support men’s and women’s competitions across several sporting codes. The playing surface will be reconstructed, sports lighting upgraded and new toilets provided beside Wayne Pearce Hill.

The commencement follows planning approval for the redevelopment in July, moving the project beyond the design and approvals stages covered previously by Austadiums.

Funding comprises $20 million from the Australian Government, $10 million from the NSW Government and $10 million from Inner West Council.

Leichhardt Oval’s $40 million redevelopment has begun! 🏟️👷‍♂️ #weststigers #leichhardtoval https://t.co/rA77SBsKKf

— The Cast Patrol (@thecastpatrol) October 24, 2026

The closure means Wests Tigers will be without their traditional Inner West home during the 2027 season, with the refurbishment intended to secure the venue’s longer-term role in professional and community sport.

Leichhardt Oval first became the home of the Balmain Tigers in 1934 and has remained closely associated with the club and its joint-venture successor.

Its current layout largely reflects changes made during the 1970s, when the playing field was repositioned from an east-west alignment to run north-south.

The western grandstand and large eastern hill have since defined the ground’s close-to-the-action atmosphere, earning it the affectionate nickname the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.

The redevelopment also serves a broader sporting purpose than its association with the NRL alone suggests. Council identifies rugby league, rugby union and football among the venue’s uses, with improved changerooms and accessibility supporting a wider range of participants.

Before the closure, the ground hosted the free One Last Roar live music event, giving the community an opportunity to gather at the venue before refurbishment.

While the latest council update confirms preliminary works have begun, it does not provide a detailed construction sequence or identify which stadium elements are currently being removed or rebuilt.