Architect and QS chosen for huge regeneration scheme for run-down area around stadium.
Leisure operator Wembley has appointed some of the consultants for a £1bn development of commercial leisure facilities around Wembley Stadium.

Wembley Developments, the company's new property development arm, will use its in-house team as concept architect, but will appoint an executive architect later.

Davis Langdon & Everest will be quantity surveyor for the 26 ha scheme in north-west London; announcements on the appointment of other members of the team are expected in the next month. The appointments cover work on a masterplan for an area around the planned National Stadium, between Wembley Park Station and Wembley Stadium Station.

A government taskforce set up in May to promote regeneration of the area recommended a "greater critical mass" of sports, entertainment and leisure in the area.

Wembley is seeking a development partner for the project and has held talks with developers including Land Securities, TrizecHahn Europe, MEPC and BAA McArthur Glen.

An application for outline planning permission is expected to be submitted to Brent council at the end of 1999.

A source close to the project said the development would help any bid by the British Olympic Authority to host the 2012 Olympic Games.

"The leisure development ought to be consistent with the games. It will provide facilities on site that will strengthen the UK's hand in any Olympic bid focused on Wembley." These are understood to include indoor basketball and ice facilities.

  • The capacity of the £475m National Stadium at Wembley, designed by Foster and Partners with HOK/Lobb, has been increased from 90 000 to 110 000. Client The English National Stadium Development Company is understood to have ordered the design change to accommodate demands from the British Olympic Association.