Parramatta’s status as the sporting and cultural capital of Western Sydney has been confirmed following the announcement that the State Government will invest $300 million to develop a new state-of-the-art stadium in the city.
The priority project will involve the full redevelopment of the existing Parramatta stadium. A new, purpose-built 30,000 seat facility will be constructed as part of a sporting precinct that will offer a world class experience for all visitors and users of the stadium.
“This is not just good news for the people of Parramatta, but for all fans of sport and entertainment in Western Sydney. This stadium will put Parramatta firmly on the map as a major events destination and will further cement our city’s position as Sydney’s dual CBD,” Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Scott Lloyd said.
The stadium will be the first built as part of the State Government’s stadia strategy. It will not only be the long-term home of the Parramatta Eels and Western Sydney Wanderers, but will be a regional facility for Global Sydney which will enable Parramatta to host a range of other marquee events and sporting fixtures.
“Ours is a great city, and great cities need great stadiums. This decision is a clear vote of confidence in the future of Parramatta and it will enable the people of Sydney’s west to enjoy high-quality, modern, and easily accessible entertainment facilities close to where they live and work,” Cr Lloyd said.
“Parramatta City Council welcomes this important investment and we are very excited to get on with the job of assisting the government with the planning of this stadium, and its integration into the broader infrastructure planning for our city.”
The new Parramatta stadium will be serviced by the first stage of the $1 billion Western Sydney Light Rail Network. The State Government has confirmed that the first stage of the planned network will include a leg from Westmead to Parramatta, running past the stadium precinct.