Campbelltown MP Greg Warren says he was left “bitterly disappointed’’ after the acting minister for sport Geoff Lee ignored requests to include Macarthur’s premium sporting venue in its suburban stadium strategy.
The Berejiklian Government recently announced it planned to upgrade or build several new stadiums in suburban Sydney – including at Brookvale, Liverpool, Penrith and Kogarah.
Mr Warren says he was dismayed that Campbelltown Sports Stadium was left off the list, given it hosts several Wests Tigers NRL games every year and will also be the full time home of the A-League’s newest club, Macarthur Bulls FC, when the upcoming season kicks off.
As a consequence, Mr Warren wrote to acting minister Lee requesting Campbelltown Sports Stadium be included in the strategy.
In response, Mr Lee “acknowledged the importance of Campbelltown Sports Stadium” but refused commit a single dollar towards upgrades.
He told Mr Warren that he had recently met with senior Campbelltown Council representatives to discuss their plans for a Leumeah sport and entertainment complex.
“A NSW Government compliant business case will be required to inform any future investment decisions,’’ Mr Lee said in the December 9 letter to the Campbelltown MP.
Mr Warren said residents in Campbelltown and the wider Macarthur deserved much, much better.
“The Macarthur region is the fastest growing region in the state,” Mr Warren said.
“Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly are certainly doing their bit in terms of accommodating new residents, yet the investment in our region certainly isn’t there.
“The NRL and A-League recognise the importance of Campbelltown Sports Stadium, yet the Berejiklian Government refuses to do likewise.
“An upgraded stadium would make for better viewing and would also help attract more events to our area.
“But once again we are being treated like second class citizens here in Macarthur.
“The NSW Liberals specialise in changing the goal posts and not playing by the rules.”
