Minns government begins construction on $309 million dollar Penrith Stadium redevelopment

The Panthers will be praying a change in scenery improves their premiership hopes as construction begins on their old home ground to make way for a shiny new 25,000 capacity stadium. WATCH what awaits players and fans when the precinct opens.

Construction has begun to rebuild the home of the Panthers after the Minns government promised to upgrade Penrith Stadium at the last election in its bid to win over Western Sydney voters.

The flashy redevelopment will break ground on Thursday and cost $309 million under plans to transform the precinct into a modern venue for sport, recreation and entertainment, including world-class concerts and events.

In the meantime, the Penrith Panthers will play their home games at CommBank Stadium until the project is finished in 2027, leaving the club to share turf with arch rivals the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers for the next two years.

But the crowded house will be well worth it for rugby league fans and Western Sydney locals.

The project, led by John Holland Group, is expected to generate about 500 jobs during construction and a further 650 jobs during operation, pumping millions back into the local economy.

Once completed, the multipurpose venue will also be able to host up to 10 concerts each year, with a concert capacity for up to 30,000 attendees.

Construction has begun on the rebuild of the Panthers’ home ground. Picture: NSW Government

Smaller spaces will be available for private events including meetings, conferences, and catered functions, while the training field next to the stadium will be remodelled to create open community spaces with multipurpose courts, and child-friendly areas.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said the stadium will have something for everyone.

The Panthers will play at CommBank Stadium for the next two years until the build is completed. Picture: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

“We are thrilled to see work begin on the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium as we bring to life our vision for a modern stadium and entertainment precinct that will serve as a major Western Sydney attraction for years to come,” he said.

“With a new stadium and community facilities, the stadium will have fans cheering on better views, seating and amenities as they cheer on their favourite teams.

“What’s more, this precinct won’t just be for sports fans but for the whole community, with year-round access to public facilities including the playing field and multipurpose courts.”

Despite the fanfare, the government has accused the former Liberal government of leaving the redevelopment bogged in red tape after promising the upgrade five years ago.

But now ground has finally been broken after the government designed, acquired planning approvals and begun construction with award-winning architects Populous and Tyrrell Studio on the project to ensure Penrith Stadium will be one of Australia’s premium suburban stadiums.

The flashy redevelopment will cost $309 million. Picture: NSW Government

The stadium will also include a brand new training field and have a capacity of 25,000 for football matches. Picture: NSW Government

Sport Minister Steve Kamper declared the precinct will also be the “beating heart of Penrith”.

“The stadium will attract a greater variety of events alongside staples like the NRL, that will help boost the local economy,” he said.

“Penrith is a thriving hub in Greater Western Sydney, and we are proud to be investing in this community’s future.”

Originally published as Minns government begins construction on $309 million dollar Penrith Stadium redevelopment