Blacktown City Council is preparing for the next chapter in the story of The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.
The current Arts Centre at 78 Flushcombe Road Blacktown is located on land that is part of the planned staged development of Blacktown Quarter, a project that will transform Blacktown's city centre with new public, cultural and commercial spaces.
Walker Corporation has advised Council it will take possession of the site in late January 2026, meaning the arts centre will close following its final program, Sydney Festival 2026 Blacktown Garage Party on 15–16 January 2026.
Council recognises the significance of this change for artists, audiences and partners who have helped make The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre such an important part of Blacktown's cultural life.
Mayor Brad Bunting said: "As we move toward a new era for our city centre and a new The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, Council will continue to support our artists and audiences and keep creativity at the heart of Blacktown's identity."
To maintain this connection, Blacktown Arts will roll out an expanded program, bringing programs, exhibitions, programs, performances and workshops to pop-up spaces, partner venues and digital platforms across Blacktown City.
A new purpose-built The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre will be constructed in Alpha Park, Blacktown, supported by over $39 million in NSW Government funding through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
The new Centre will include a gallery, performance studio, workshop spaces and will open directly onto Alpha Park. The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre will continue to be a space where people come together to create, learn and celebrate, and where local stories and creativity can flourish, reflecting the diversity and energy of our community. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with completion in 2028.
The Arts Centre was renamed in 2017 in honour of the late Councillor Leo Kelly OAM, a former Mayor of Blacktown City, whose vision and advocacy helped establish Blacktown as a centre for arts and culture.
Council remains committed to honouring Leo Kelly's legacy and to ensuring that creativity, inclusion and community remain at the heart of Blacktown City's future.
Image: Becca Hatch, Blacktown Block Party, Blacktown Arts 2022 Credit Nawealth Keo
