NSW Government confirms backing for new rectangular stadium in Penrith

The NSW Government has confirmed that the BlueBet Stadium in outer western metropolitan Sydney, home of the NRL’s Penrith Panthers, will be redeveloped into a new venue with a capacity of between 25,000 and 30,000 people.

Making the long expected announcement today, NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet stated “Penrith Stadium is a hub for Western Sydney - it’s where sporting success is celebrated, where families come together, and where our next generation of sporting superstars train.

“But this upgrade is about much more than sport, it is about bringing suburban venues to the fore and taking major events across the state.”

Part of the NSW Government’s commitment to upgrade suburban sports venues in Sydney, introduced when it moved to scrap the rebuilding of Accor (then ANZ) Stadium venues, the development is reported to be set to cost in excess of $300 million.

The design of the new stadium will be confirmed following a consultation and tender process, with construction to begin at the start of 2023.

While the redevelopment is underway, the Panthers will play at an alternative home ground for two seasons before returning home to Penrith in 2025.

Commenting on the importance of the investment, NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres commented “this new venue will help take Penrith to the next level in sport, entertainment and tourism.

“With a new international airport and metro rail line on the way in the Western Parkland City, now is exactly the right time to be investing in visitor economy assets in centres like Penrith.

“While this venue will be home to the current NRL Premiers the Penrith Panthers, it is about so much more than rugby league. This stadium will be a new major event venue for our growing population in Western Sydney.”

Developments at other suburban grounds in Sydney are believed to also be under consideration, with venues in Campbelltown, Brookvale Oval and Kogarah Oval vying for backing.

Image: Populous' concept for the CommBank Stadium. Used for illustrative purposes only.