Planning approved for Crystal Palace National Sports Centre

The London Borough of Bromley's planning committee has approved proposals for the transformation of the iconic Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.

We are delighted to be part of the team delivering the project, led by Morgan Sindall and the Greater London Authority, alongside Max Fordham, Alan Baxter Associates, WOO Architects and Currie & Brown.

Originally opened in 1964, the Grade II*-listed venue will be revitalised through a major renovation that preserves its heritage while creating a modern, inclusive and sustainable destination for sport and recreation. The investment will enhance facilities for everyone from grassroots participants to elite athletes, improve accessibility across the site and deliver extensive sustainability improvements to decarbonise the venue.

The proposals have received widespread support, including backing from more than 15 national governing sports bodies and clubs, local authority leaders and Historic England, which described the plans as making the centre ‘fit for the future’.

→ A full refurbishment to improve accessibility and create a centre for everyone, including an enlarged gym.

→ The return of the diving pool and 50m pool to a reconfigured aquatics hall supporting diving, shallow-water activities and 25m and 50m swimming.

→ New sporting amenities including an outdoor padel centre, basketball courts, five-a-side football pitches and a full-size multi-sports pitch.

→ Site-wide accessibility improvements, including enhanced lighting and wayfinding.

→ A new environmental strategy that addresses internal comfort issues while significantly reducing energy demand.

→ An enhanced indoor sports zone featuring an indoor 100m track, specialist weightlifting facilities and a climbing centre.

→ New free-to-access community facilities, including a café, outdoor gym, 200m running track and basketball court.

Sustainability is central to the project, which targets a 98% reduction in carbon emissions through measures including photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps. The project has also already delivered an extensive programme of social value initiatives throughout design development.

This planning approval marks a major milestone in the renewal of one of Britain's most significant sporting venues, with work expected to start on site in late 2026.