Residents have suggested there are other more suitable locations for the development
Grant Williams Local democracy reporter
07:00, 31 Jan 2026
Developers are expected to submit a formal application for the hotel early this year(Image: Flanagan Lawrence/Quintain)
Plans to build a new hotel on a patch of land at the foot of Wembley Stadium’s steps has been met with opposition from some locals, who claim it will have “far reaching consequences” for both residents and the environment.
The ‘meanwhile’ space has been used as a market square and children’s soft play since 2022. In November last year, Wembley developers, Quintain, announced it will submit a formal application to Brent Council early this year.
However, a petition calling on Quintain to stop the plans has already been signed by more than 100 residents in just two days. It suggests the “cherished” community space is “now under threat” from the development and feels there are other sites nearby that would be more suitable for a hotel.
The space has been used as a market square and children’s soft play since 2022(Image: Google Maps)
Quintain had to wait until the new Olympic Steps leading to the national stadium had been built before bringing the proposals forward. The plot, which is located at the bottom of the steps and adjacent to Brent Council’s Civic Centre building, already has outline planning permission for either a hotel or office building under the 2011 Masterplan.
The CGIs show the hotel entrance and lobby opening out onto Samovar Square, with retail or restaurants on Olympic Way. It currently comprises the temporary ‘meanwhile’ spaces of Market Square and Samovar Space – which includes the children’s play area.
The change.org petition, started by Haider Nasrallah, suggests the construction of the hotel would “not only overshadow and diminish this much-loved space” but may also result in increased traffic congestion, noise pollution, environmental damage, and put additional strain on local infrastructure.
It states: “We grew up surrounded by the vibrant energy of Wembley Park Market Square, a place where families gather, children play, communities connect, and traditions flourish. This is not merely a physical space, it is the heartbeat of our local culture.
“People from all walks of life come together here, united by a rich tapestry of diverse stalls, warm interactions, and a deep sense of belonging. Sadly, this cherished community space is now under threat.
“If approved, this development would have far reaching consequences for both residents and the environment, while permanently eliminating a valued open space that is central to our community life. […] We firmly believe that alternative locations exist which are far more suitable for a development of this nature, locations that do not require the sacrifice of an invaluable community space.”
Quintain has said that engagement with residents and other stakeholders will take place prior to the formal application being submitted, which is expected to happen in February or March. If approved, builders expect to start work at the end of 2026 at the earliest – with construction likely to take between two and three years to complete.
Quintain was approached to comment on the petition but did not respond ahead of publication.
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