After more than two decades of setbacks, construction has officially commenced on the long-awaited development at Sydney’s historic White City site, which will become a major sport and community hub led by the Hakoah Club.

Builders Richard Crookes Constructions have now moved on site at the former home of tennis in Sydney.

The $175 million project will transform the Paddington precinct into a state-of-the-art multi-sport and community facility, featuring nine tennis courts, a competition-standard football pitch, multi-use indoor courts, swimming pools, a fitness centre, and wellness, cultural and community spaces. The site will also include a new clubhouse, café and outdoor areas for locals to enjoy.

Originally launched over 20 years ago, the White City redevelopment has faced prolonged delays, planning disputes and a change of builder. Richard Crookes Constructions was brought in to replace Parkview Constructions, whose contract was terminated in May 2024.

The Hakoah Club entered into a new Early Contractor Involvement agreement with RCC later that year, and construction is now underway.

The new precinct is now expected to open in early 2027, pushing back from previous estimates that suggested completion in the first half of 2026.

The White City site holds significant sporting heritage. Once home to Tennis NSW, it hosted Davis Cup ties, international tournaments, and the Australian Open before operations shifted to Sydney Olympic Park.

The original tennis facility was built on the grounds of the old White City Amusement Park - once a thriving attraction featuring Australia’s first rollercoaster before it was destroyed by fire in 1917.

The redevelopment also marks a new chapter for the Hakoah Club, which has served Sydney’s Jewish community since 1938. After closing its Bondi premises in 2007 and purchasing the White City site in 2012, the club has positioned the new facility as both a sporting hub and a safe communal space.

Hakoah Club President Steven Lowy recently reaffirmed the project's importance in the wake of the December 14 Bondi attack, stating that the White City facility would serve as a "tangible and symbolic beacon for social cohesion.”

“Now more than ever, we are committed to creating a place where we can safely come together and strengthen Jewish life and community,” Lowy said.

“A place of joy and happiness that we will share with those in the broader community who believe in our Australian values of respect, mateship, decency, family and helping others.”

Once complete, the White City precinct is set to become one of Sydney’s premier sport and community destinations, while restoring activity to one of the city’s most iconic and storied venues.