Quintain’s Temporary 5-a-Side Pitches Plan for Wembley Housing Site

Key Points

• A site in Wembley, North London, earmarked for future housing development, is now proposed for temporary use as 5-a-side football pitches and an indoor events venue.
• The plans have been tabled by developers Quintain, one of the largest landowners in the Wembley Park area.
• Quintain has been leading the regeneration of Wembley Park since 2004, with planning permission to build up to 8,500 new homes across 8.8 million square feet of land.
• More than 4,700 of these homes have already been completed, according to statements from Quintain.
• The site has previously faced opposition, including a petition with over 500 signatures against related developments like a hotel project in the vicinity.
• These temporary plans aim to provide community sports facilities while long-term housing construction proceeds.

Wembley, North London (North London News) February 5, 2026 – Developers have submitted fresh plans to temporarily transform a site in Wembley, earmarked for housing, into 5-a-side football pitches and an indoor events venue, as part of the ongoing Wembley Park regeneration.

The proposal comes from Quintain, the major landowner driving the area’s transformation since 2004. Under existing planning permissions, Quintain is authorised to develop up to 8,500 new homes on 8.8 million square feet of land, with over 4,700 already completed. This temporary use seeks to optimise the site ahead of permanent residential construction, offering local sports and event facilities in the interim.

What Are the Details of the Proposed Temporary Development?

The plans specifically call for temporary 5-a-side football pitches, designed to serve community needs in Wembley, a bustling part of North London. An indoor events venue is also included, potentially hosting various local gatherings. As outlined in the latest submissions to local planning authorities, these facilities would occupy land currently designated for future housing within the Quintain portfolio.

Quintain’s long-term vision for Wembley Park encompasses comprehensive regeneration, blending residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. The temporary pitches align with efforts to maintain community engagement during phased development. No specific timeline for the temporary phase has been detailed publicly, but it underscores the developer’s commitment to balancing housing delivery with short-term public benefits.

Why Is Quintain Proposing This Temporary Use for Wembley Land?

Quintain has been at the forefront of Wembley Park’s revival since 2004, investing heavily in infrastructure and housing. The developer holds planning permission for 8,500 homes across 8.8 million square feet, a figure confirmed in their official statements. Over 4,700 homes stand completed, housing thousands of residents and contributing to North London’s growth.

As reported by MyLondon News in coverage of local developments, this site forms part of that broader ambition. The temporary sports pitches address immediate community demands for recreational space, particularly in an area with growing population pressures. Quintain views this as a pragmatic step, maximising land utility before housing construction commences.

How Does This Fit into Wembley Park’s Regeneration History?

Wembley Park’s transformation traces back to 2004, when Quintain began acquiring and redeveloping land around the iconic Wembley Stadium. The masterplan includes not only housing but also retail, offices, and public realms, fostering a vibrant neighbourhood. Planning permissions granted over the years allow for the 8,500 homes, with steady progress evidenced by the 4,700 completions.

Local media, including MyLondon, have tracked this evolution closely. The developer’s approach emphasises phased delivery, where temporary uses like sports facilities bridge gaps between major builds. This strategy minimises land banking and supports active community life amid large-scale change.

What Local Opposition Has the Site Faced Previously?

The Wembley site has not been without controversy. A petition opposing a nearby hotel development garnered more than 500 signatures, as detailed in MyLondon reporting. Linked articles highlight community concerns over density and green space loss in the area.

Similarly, another petition against related plans exceeded 500 signatories, reflecting resident unease. These campaigns underscore tensions between regeneration benefits and preserving local character. Quintain’s temporary pitches may seek to mitigate such sentiments by prioritising sports amenities.

Who Is Quintain and What Is Their Role in Wembley?

Quintain stands as one of the largest landowners in Wembley Park, spearheading regeneration efforts since 2004. The developer’s portfolio spans 8.8 million square feet, approved for up to 8,500 homes. Official Quintain data notes over 4,700 homes delivered, alongside schools, parks, and transport links.

As a key player, Quintain collaborates with Brent Council and other stakeholders. Their temporary proposals for 5-a-side pitches exemplify adaptive planning, ensuring land serves the public before housing phases.

When Did Quintain Begin Wembley Park Regeneration?

Regeneration commenced in 2004, marking two decades of activity by February 2026. Quintain’s initial acquisitions laid the groundwork for Wembley Park’s modern identity. Permissions for 8,500 homes across 8.8 million square feet followed, with 4,700+ completions by now.

This timeline reflects sustained investment, transforming brownfield sites into thriving spaces. Temporary uses like the proposed pitches fit this incremental model.

Where Exactly Is the Site Located in Wembley?

The site lies within Wembley Park, North London, proximate to high-profile landmarks like Wembley Stadium. MyLondon links describe it as housing-earmarked land amid ongoing developments. Its position enhances accessibility for 5-a-side pitches and events.

Proximity to transport hubs and existing communities makes it ideal for temporary activation. Brent borough’s planning portal will host full details upon submission.

What Community Benefits Do the 5-a-Side Pitches Offer?

Temporary 5-a-side pitches promise grassroots sports access, vital in densely populated Wembley. An indoor events venue could host tournaments, classes, or socials, enriching local life. Quintain positions this as community-focused interim use.

With 4,700 homes occupied, demand for such facilities grows. The plan counters criticisms of development by delivering tangible recreation.

Will This Delay the Housing Development?

No explicit delays are indicated; the temporary setup precedes housing. Quintain’s permissions remain intact for 8,500 units. Temporary phases typically span 1-3 years, aligning with construction prep.

Planning experts note such uses optimise timelines. Brent Council will assess impacts.

How Have Similar Temporary Plans Fared in North London?

North London sees precedents, like temporary pitches in Camden or Tottenham amid housing booms. Quintain’s Wembley bid mirrors these, balancing needs. Past MyLondon coverage shows mixed reception but ultimate approvals.

Success hinges on community buy-in and council support.

What Is the Planning Process for These Proposals?

Plans are tabled with Brent Council, entering consultation. Public input, as with prior petitions, shapes outcomes. Quintain’s track record – 4,700 homes – bolsters credibility.

Decisions consider regeneration goals since 2004.

Who Supports or Opposes the Temporary Pitches?

Support stems from Quintain and sports advocates; opposition may echo hotel petitions. Over 500 signatures previously signalled caution. Neutral observers await details.

Local football clubs could champion it.

Why Focus on 5-a-Side Football Specifically?

5-a-side suits urban spaces, requiring less area than full pitches. Wembley’s youth demographic benefits. Quintain targets inclusivity.

Events venue complements, per plans.

What Happens After the Temporary Phase?

Land reverts to housing per permissions. 8,500 total homes proceed. Temporary infrastructure relocates if viable.

Quintain ensures seamless transition.

How Does This Impact Local Sports Provision?

Boosts access amid housing growth. Post-4,700 homes, facilities strain; pitches alleviate. Long-term plans integrate leisure.

Community wins short-term.

What Statements Have Developers Made?

Quintain confirms regeneration since 2004, permissions for 8,500 homes, 4,700 completed. Temporary plans undisclosed verbatim, but align with public filings.

MyLondon attributes site context.

Are There Environmental Considerations?

Temporary structures minimise footprint. Wembley Park includes green spaces. Council reviews sustainability.

No major issues flagged yet.

How Can Residents Engage with the Plans?

Via Brent Council portal post-submission. Petitions proved effective before. Quintain consultations likely.