A western Sydney stadium so run-down that visiting teams dubbed it “death valley” is set to get a new lease of life, with Cumberland Councillors unanimously passing a motion to build a new stadium with function facilities at Granville Park.
The current stadium is home to the first grade Two Blues Rugby Union team, which was founded in 1879, and currently boasts both men and women playing in the national squads.
However the world class players are let down by worn out and dilapidated facilities that have increasingly become a target for vandals.
Mayor Greg Cummings said a report is being prepared that will identify the resourcing requirements of the new facility.
“This decision is a win for both Granville and Greater Western Sydney, and an investment in the health and well-being of the local community,” Mayor Cummings said.
“The stadium and grounds at Granville Park are simply not up to scratch.
“The building is on its last legs; there are holes in the walls, the change rooms are falling apart, and there is wide spread damage to the roof and guttering.
“Western Sydney, and Granville Park in particular, routinely produces world class athletes. Unfortunately the stadiums and grounds they train and compete on are rarely of the same calibre.
“Cumberland Council has decided it’s time they get the facilities to match.”
The decision follows the release of early concept artwork in August 2017 that envisioned replacing the out-dated structure along Montrose Avenue with a new, state-of-the art pavilion and carrying out major upgrades to the playing fields.
The concept artwork shows a modern facility boasting ample elevated seating for a better crowd experience, four change rooms for male and female athletes, a strength and conditioning gym, plus separate rooms for time keepers and referees.
Granville Park was once the main sporting venue for the Parramatta district; originally a venue for horse-racing, cricket and athletics, rugby union and then rugby league.
