Campbelltown’s Labor MP Greg Warren says the NSW Government’s decision to snub Campbelltown Sports Stadium from its suburban stadium strategy was utterly disgraceful.
The NSW Liberals recently revealed the list of suburban stadiums earmarked for upgrades – however, Campbelltown Sports Stadium was not featured.
Instead, stadiums in Liberal electorates such as Penrith and Brookvale were chosen while Kogarah was also included.
The government also said it was considering building a brand new stadium in Liverpool, but sources say the exact location will be the aerotropolis at Western Sydney Airport.
Either way, Mr Warren is not happy and has written today to sport minister Geoff Lee.
“To say that I am bitterly disappointed with the decision to not invest any funds into Campbelltown Sports Stadium, would be a gross understatement,’’ Mr Warren says in the letter.
“The government may be trumpeting its boutique stadium policy as some great achievement but I can assure you, here in Campbelltown, the community is furious with the announcement.
“Campbelltown Council has also been proactive in trying to work with the government to secure funding for upgrades. But the efforts from both the council and I have continually fallen on deaf ears.
“I note two of the stadiums are located in Liberal electorates. Given what we have seen with the Stronger Communities Fund and Bush Fire Relief Fund, I really hope the decisions regarding successful stadiums were not made to – in the Premier’s own words – curry favour with voters.’’
The case for upgrades at Campbelltown Sports Stadium is extremely strong, Mr warren told the minister in the letter.
“The Macarthur region is the fastest growing region in the state and as such, we deserve a stadium to adequately cater for that population.
“Transport links to the stadium are certainly ideal with a train station on the doorstep of the venue and the M5 Motorway also in close proximity.
“As I am sure you are aware, the A-League’s newest side, Macarthur Bulls FC, call the venue home. NRL side the Wests Tigers also use the stadium as one of its several home grounds.
“It makes sense to invest in the stadium – what doesn’t make sense, is your government’s refusal to acknowledge that need.
“I urge you to reconsider your suburban stadium strategy and the decision to snub Campbelltown Sport Stadium.’’
