Crystal Palace National Sports Centre redevelopment approved for construction

London’s Crystal Palace National Sports Centre will undergo a major transformation after planning permission was granted by the London Borough of Bromley. The 15‑hectare venue, opened in 1964 and notable for hosting the first Women’s FA Cup final, will be refurbished with a focus on sustainability, accessibility and preserving its Grade II‑listed heritage. The scheme, slated to begin late 2026, will be led by main contractor Morgan Sindall and will add new facilities such as a six‑court padel centre, 3×3 basketball courts, five‑a‑side football pitches, an artificial multi‑sport pitch, an indoor 100 m track, weightlifting and climbing areas, and a combined swimming and diving pool complex.

Backed by more than 15 national governing bodies and supported by Mayor Sadiq Khan, the redevelopment also includes social‑value programmes for local schools and communities, aiming to create jobs and boost participation in sport and construction. The project combines heritage conservation, modern sports infrastructure and environmental standards to secure the centre’s role as a flagship community asset for London.