The redevelopment plans for the National Sports Centre at Crystal Palace, estimated at £130 million, have been announced by London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The goal is to attract prestigious events, including Diamond League athletics, back to the iconic venue by 2028.

As previously reported in 2023, the facility, inaugurated in 1964, has endured years of neglect, with its primary swimming and diving pools shuttered and the athletics stadium in dire need of significant upgrades.

Following the appointment of project manager Ben Woods by Khan, an architect has begun collaborating with a contractor to implement a transformative restoration initiative described as a “once-in-a-generation” project.

Exclusive visuals and a video, set to showcase the renovated Crystal Palace, have emerged pending the approval of the planning application, with the work to be executed by Morgan Sindall Construction. The redevelopment will introduce a 200m outdoor track and a cutting-edge 100m indoor sprinting facility, positioned between the refurbished grade II-listed main building and the athletics stadium. Woods, who previously contributed to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, remarked, “Submitting a planning application for the entire centre later this year is a significant step for the project.”

Located in southeast London, the site holds a storied sporting legacy. It hosted the FA Cup final between 1895 and 1914, and from the 1950s until 2012, it was the scene of major athletics competitions, prominently branded as the London Grand Prix. In 1971, it also saw the inaugural Women’s FA Cup final.

Khan expressed his commitment to this landmark redevelopment, emphasizing its importance for securing the facility’s future for years to come.

“With initial improvements already underway and Morgan Sindall Construction engaged for the design and build, we are eager to collaborate with local partners and the community to establish an exceptional sporting venue,” Khan stated. He aspires to position London as a premier host for elite sports events, even expressing an interest in bidding for the 2040 Olympic Games. The redevelopment of Crystal Palace plays a crucial role in his vision for promoting sports participation across all levels.

“I envision Diamond League events returning to Crystal Palace,” he remarked, recalling the excitement of watching legendary athletes like Seb Coe and Daley Thompson compete in the past. “It’s important that we revitalize Crystal Palace to its former prominence.”

Khan added, “While Diamond League athletics at the London Stadium is great, I want Crystal Palace to thrive as well, providing sport and inspiration to the local community.” He reiterated the significance of collaborating with experts like Woods, who has a strong background in major sporting events.

The planned redevelopment aims to reshape the swimming pool and enhance facilities significantly. Numerous short-term upgrades, including track repairs and the installation of temporary floodlighting, have already rejuvenated the site for functional use.

Additionally, last year Khan secured a £23 million investment from his Green Finance Fund, facilitating the centre’s transition to all-electric systems and a notable reduction in carbon emissions.