Cessnock Leagues Club has officially broken ground on its redevelopment project that will see the venue’s seating capacity double in size, from 700 to almost 1,400.
At a ceremony held on Tuesday 13 May, club directors, staff and members were joined by Cessnock mayor Dan Watton, Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi, and representatives from Altis Architecture and Club Projects to mark the official start of construction.
Designed by leading firm Altis Architecture, the redevelopment will add over 1,700 square metres of outdoor space, including alfresco dining areas, a new courtyard, landscaped gardens and an outdoor stage for live entertainment.
A new 150-seat restaurant will be built alongside the relocation and expansion of the club’s existing bistro and cafe, which will offer indoor and outdoor seating for up to 240 diners. New food options will include wood-fired pizzas and a gelato bar, complementing an expanded main lounge and sports bar.
The redevelopment also includes a new children’s playground and an additional 58 car parking spaces to accommodate the anticipated increase in patronage.
Cessnock Leagues Club president Bruce Wilson said the milestone marks the beginning of a new era for the club and the wider community.
“This is the start of one of the city’s major developments on record, that will cater for the entertainment and employment for many years ahead,” he said.
“According to the Bureau of Statistics, Cessnock is and will be among the fastest-growing communities in the state, and by undertaking this project we will be well positioned to meet the needs of the town going forward.
“Management and the board are confident their decision to undertake the project will position the club as one of the major facilities of its kind in the Hunter Region for the years ahead.”
Construction is now underway, and the redevelopment is expected to be completed by May 2026.