Wembley hotel plan draws 200 objections over lost community space

Residents in Wembley have raised strong opposition to a proposed 17-storey hotel on Olympic Way, which would replace a temporary market and children’s play area. Brent Council has received 220 objections to the planning application, alongside a petition signed by 700 people. The site, adjacent to the Civic Centre, has been used as a community space since 2022.

Developer Quintain submitted the plans in June 2024, outlining a hotel with commercial units and a new Civic Square. The proposal follows an existing outline permission for a hotel or office under the 2011 Wembley Masterplan. However, the current design reduces the building’s height from 20 to 17 storeys, while removing the existing Market Square and Samovar Space.

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Community space at risk

The site has hosted a weekly market and a soft-play area for children, described by residents as a vital social hub. One objection on the council’s planning portal stated the space supports small businesses and provides a safe outdoor area for families. Another resident argued the development prioritises commercial interests over local needs, warning the loss would harm community cohesion.

These spaces are essential to the wellbeing of local residents. The market supports small businesses, provides access to local goods, and serves as an important social hub that brings the community together.

Local resident, in an objection to Brent Council

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Quintain’s plans show the hotel lobby opening onto Samovar Square, with retail units along Olympic Way. The developer claims the new Civic Square will host events and markets, though residents have questioned whether this will match the current space’s accessibility and use.

Political and financial context

Brent Council previously approved a £12.1 million contribution tied to development parameters for the site. The funding was conditional on Quintain not replicating the outline permission’s design. The current proposal, however, still falls within the 2011 Masterplan’s scope for a hotel or office.

Brent West MP Barry Gardiner has opposed the scheme, arguing it offers minimal benefits to residents. In a statement to MyLondon, he said the plan would cause years of construction noise, reduced sunlight, and increased traffic. Gardiner called for wider resident consultation and for the application to be heard by the Planning Committee, with public speaking rights for locals.

What happens next

Brent Council’s planning officers will review the application and objections before making a recommendation. The final decision could be delegated to officers or referred to the Planning Committee. Residents have until the consultation deadline to submit further comments. If approved, construction would begin after the current community space is removed.