The Panthers Group has signed an agreement with Accor to open a new five-star Pullman at the Penrith Panthers precinct in Western Sydney as part of a project that will transform the area into a state-of-the-art business and entertainment destination.

Opening in the fourth quarter of 2023, the landmark precinct will consist of an upscale 153-room Pullman Sydney Penrith hotel, a 1,000-person conference centre and a community centre.

Located at the foot of the Blue Mountains, the hotel will be adjoined to the new 1,250-square-metre Western Sydney Conference Centre (WSCC), which will complement the Group’s current meetings and events business and host industry tradeshows, exhibitions and other major events.

Accor also operates Mercure Penrith, which is located adjacent to the Penrith Panthers precinct and will continue to work with the Panthers Group.

The community centre will be a flexible, multi-purpose venue that will serve as a hub for local organisations to operate from.

“Pullman Sydney Penrith will be an elevated addition to Western Sydney’s tourism offering and builds upon the existing and upcoming new amenities within the Panthers precinct and the wider Penrith locale,” Panthers Group chief executive officer, Brian Fletcher, said.

“It is part of our ongoing commitment to deliver world-class facilities to the local community. This development will further enhance Penrith’s reputation as a world-class event and tourism destination.”

The City of Penrith is on the precipice of a significant tourism boom, with additional major infrastructure works underway to further enhance the destination, including the upcoming Western Sydney International Airport just a 30-minute drive away, opening in 2026.

The new hotel announcement follows Accor’s seven-year deal for the naming rights of Accor Stadium at Sydney’s Olympic Park.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Panthers Group to deliver Pullman Sydney Penrith. Western Sydney is widely renowned as the engine room of Sydney and we are incredibly proud of our thriving hotels and incredible teams here,” Accor Pacific chief executive officer, Sarah Derry said.

“Pullman Sydney Penrith will offer leisure and business travellers memorable guest experiences and superb facilities and, once open, this hotel will quickly become the leading accommodation choice in Penrith.

“Sport plays a crucial role in Australian culture and, by tourism and sporting organisations working together, our guests have the ability to enjoy incredible experiences and service.”