Crystal Palace National Sports Centre refurbishment approved in South London

Planning permission has been granted for a major refurbishment of the Grade II*‑listed Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in South London. The scheme, designed by Faulkner Browns and to be built by Morgan Sindall, will modernise the 1964‑era complex with an enlarged gym, reconfigured swimming pool, new stands, a six‑court padel centre, basketball courts, five‑a‑side football pitches and a full‑size artificial multi‑sports pitch.

The project aims for a 98 % reduction in carbon emissions through energy‑efficiency upgrades, photovoltaic panels and air‑source heat pumps. Mayor Sadiq Khan welcomed the development, describing the venue as a historic hub for UK athletics that needs major investment, while local MP Liam Conlon hailed it as a milestone for South London sport.