A few years ago, one of the biggest construction stories in London was the Sphere. Madison Square Garden Company wanted to build its first venue outside the US on a site in Stratford, near the Olympic Park, that had been used as a coach park during the 2012 Games.
The plans
Designed by Populous, the architects behind the O2 Arena, the building would have held up to about 21,500 people. The outside was to be wrapped in LED panels showing moving images, and inside there were promises of huge high-resolution screens, haptic floors so the audience could feel the bass, and adaptive acoustics. Big-name contractors, including McLaren and Sir Robert McAlpine, were linked with the build.
What went wrong
The plans got permission from the local development corporation, but the Mayor of London refused them in late 2023, largely because of the light the giant screen would throw into nearby homes. Early in 2024 the company withdrew its application altogether, and the London Sphere was dead.
Why it matters for homeowners
Most of us aren't building a 20,000-seat venue, but the lesson scales right down. Planning is about the impact on neighbours. Overlooking, loss of light and noise are exactly what councils weigh up on a house extension, and they're what neighbours object to. Thinking about them at the design stage, and talking to the people next door early, saves a lot of grief.
If you're planning an extension or a new build in Croydon or Bromley, we'll help you put together something that works for you and stands a good chance with the planners.