Plans Lodged For Bigger Orange Sports Stadium

The Orange Sports Precinct is a step closer to reality, with updated development plans revealing a larger 1350-seat grandstand and enhanced facilities set to support both community and high-profile sporting events.

The revised Development Application includes detailed designs for the proposed John Davis Sports Stadium, which will now feature a larger grandstand, two corporate boxes with uninterrupted halfway-line views accommodating 20 guests, while additional temporary corporate facilities are also being planned for marquee events.

The expansion from an earlier 1000-seat plan has been made possible by a $15 million funding injection from the Federal Government, confirmed in January.

Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said the revised blueprint reflects strong community feedback.

“We listened to the local call for more seating,” Cr Mileto said.

“The increased capacity ensures the new stadium can host not only local fixtures but also major events that bring regional and national attention.”

The stadium’s design maintains a low profile due to its proximity to the Bloomfield health precinct, with only the upper level of the two-storey structure visible from Forest Road, an important consideration in the approval process.

Meanwhile, on-the-ground progress continues at the precinct. Turf has now been laid across all eight new sports fields, with the first four already being maintained, creating a visible shift toward the precinct’s completion.

Plans submitted this week to the NSW planning portal include:

A 1350-seat grandstand for the 10,000-capacity John Davis Sports Stadium

A new amenities building with canteen and storage, next to the athletics track grandstand

Field lighting installation for the eight sports fields

Two new car parks

A comprehensive landscaping masterplan

Cr Tammy Greenhalgh, Chair of Orange City Council’s Recreation & Culture Committee, said the pace of development is encouraging.

“With the fields taking shape and plans progressing through the planning stages, we’re getting a clear picture of what’s ahead for sport in Orange,” she said.

“It’s especially exciting to see practical additions like the new canteen incorporated into the designs.”

State and federal representatives have also welcomed the momentum.

Member for Orange, Phil Donato, said the upgraded seating aligns with the legacy of John Davis, after whom the stadium is named.

“This project now matches the scale and ambition it deserves. It’s about positioning Orange as a go-to destination for major sporting events,” Mr Donato said.

Andrew Gee, Member for Calare, said the precinct will bring lasting benefits to the region.

“This $15 million boost has brought the original vision back to life—bigger and better. It’s a huge win for sport, the economy, and the community,” he said.

“We’re not just building fields and stands—we’re creating opportunities for growth, tourism, and long-term local engagement.”

The NSW Government has pledged $59.5 million, with the Australian Government contributing $15 million via the Growing Regions Program.

Expressions of Interest are now open for contractors, with a shortlist of construction firms to be announced in April ahead of the official tender process launching in May.