MSG Sphere faces major setback as London Mayor rejects Stratford project

In a resounding decision that prioritises the well-being of local residents and the environment, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has rejected plans for the controversial MSG Sphere in Stratford.

In a decisive move, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has emphatically rejected plans for the controversial MSG Sphere in Stratford, citing concerns over its detrimental impact on local residents and the environment. The proposed 21,500-capacity, 90-metre-high domed structure covered in screens would have resulted in “unacceptable negative impacts,” including significant light intrusion, harm to the outlook of neighboring properties, and detriment to human health.

A comprehensive report from City Hall highlighted the Sphere’s potential to disrupt the lives of nearby residents, causing significant light pollution and disrupting their general enjoyment of their homes. Additionally, the report described the venue’s aesthetics as “bulky, unduly dominant, and incongruous” with the surrounding area.

Madison Square Garden Entertainment’s planning application now rests in the hands of Michael Gove MP, the Secretary of State for the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), who will make the final decision on the project’s fate. This setback represents a major hurdle for MSG Entertainment, which had initially received a positive response from Mayor Khan in 2019.

Despite opposition from thousands of Stratford residents, the Sphere project had progressed through various stages of planning approval. However, in February, Secretary Gove issued a holding directive to pause plans for the Sphere in order to allow for further scrutiny.

The proposed Stratford MSG Sphere was envisioned as a replica of the newly opened Las Vegas MSG Sphere, which has faced financial challenges since its debut in September. Reports indicate that the Nevada arena has lost $98.4 million in its first two months of operation, prompting the resignation of Chief Financial Officer Gutam Ranji.

Mayor Khan’s decision to reject the Stratford MSG Sphere underscores the importance of considering the potential impact of large-scale projects on local communities and the environment. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial in ensuring that development contributes positively to the well-being of residents and the surrounding area.

Image Credit: MSG Sphere