Sports centre revamp reaches 'key milestone'

Plans to transform the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre have been submitted.

The 15‑hectare site, opened in 1964, is set for a revamp of its athletics stadium, indoor arena, and swimming and diving facilities.

Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has pledged millions of pounds to upgrade the historic south London venue, which hosted the first Women's FA Cup final and decades of elite competition.

"I am delighted that the once-in-a-generation redevelopment of the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre has reached another key milestone with the submission of the planning application for its transformation," the mayor said.

Morgan Sindall Construction, the contractor appointed last year, has lodged the detailed plans with Bromley Council.

They include a full refurbishment of the Grade II*‑listed building, aimed at improving accessibility, creating larger gym space and boosting club facilities.

Under the plans, there will be a new Padel centre, 3x3 basketball courts, five‑a‑side football pitches and a full‑size multi‑sports pitch.

The 50m pool and diving pool are to undergo a major refurbishment, and all the swimming and diving facilities are to be put on one level for the first time.

The proposals also include upgrading indoor zones to allow year‑round use for local clubs, community groups and elite athletes.

And a new public hub "will combine leisure, play and sport" with a café, 200m running track, basketball court and an outdoor gym.

According to the mayor's office, the project aims for a 97% cut in carbon emissions through measures including photovoltaic roof panels and air‑source heat pumps.

The project is supported by a £23m investment from the mayor's Green Finance Fund to help the centre go fully electric for the first time in its 60‑year history.

Richard Dobson, area director for Morgan Sindall in London, said the plans showcased "what a modern, sustainable, inclusive and community-centred leisure centre should look like – all while paying homage to the venue's inspiring legacy".

"This combination of driving factors means the site will not only reclaim its original vision of being a 'glass pavilion in the park' that supports the health and wellbeing of Londoners, but we will have laid the groundwork for a centre of excellence where a new generation of athletes can break and set their own records," he said.

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