Latest news
New designs reveal Western Sydney Stadium will boast 'Australia’s steepest stands'
The government of New South Wales (NSW) in Australia has unveiled its chosen design for a new 30,000-seat stadium in Parramatta, which it says will “revolutionise the spectator experience” when it opens to fans in 2019.
NSW premier Mike Baird and sport minister Stuart Ayres have announced architect and developer Lendlease as the studio contracted to design and build the Western Sydney Stadium, which is envisioned as a sport and entertainment hub for the region.
The ground – which will be the new home of rugby league team Parramatta Eels, A-League football club Western Sydney Warriors and rugby union side Greater Sydney Rams – has been designed to offer fans a heightened matchday atmosphere and the best possible views.
“This design boasts Australia’s steepest stands to ensure fans will be closer to the action than they are at any other in the country,” said Baird.
While few other details have been revealed, the stadium will feature a Gold LEED Energy and Environmental design rating and “has been designed to respect Parramatta’s cultural heritage.” According to Ayres, “It has the entire fan experience in mind, featuring all the mod cons like WiFi and an activation precinct set to draw the crowds on game day.”
He added that the surrounding precinct – which will provide pedestrian and public transport links to the stadium – “will set a new standard for sporting experience in Sydney.”
The existing Parramatta Stadium, which has a 20,000 capacity, will be demolished in early 2017 to make way for the new venue, which is scheduled to open in early 2019.
The plans form the first phase of the NSW government’s wider AS$1.6bn (US$1.2bn, €1.1bn, £950.1m) stadium strategy for Sydney, which will see three grounds altered or rebuilt.
“We’re getting on with the job of delivering the biggest investment in sporting and entertainment infrastructure since the 2000 Olympics,” said Baird. “The local economy will benefit from 1,200 jobs that will be created during construction of the Western Sydney Stadium, and at least 900 ongoing jobs to support the stadium and the major sporting events and concerts it will attract for decades to come.”