The leader of Brent Council has promised to defend the public’s interest over improvement works near Wembley Stadium if the ground is sold to a private buyer.
Cllr Muhammed Butt said it was important to re-examine the funding decisions made on two of three ‘zones’ along Olympic Way, which stretches from Wembley Park Underground to the national stadium.
The council’s cabinet has not make any changes to the current proposal – a contribution of up to £17.8 million – but agreed that it would need to be discussed if Wembley changes hands.
“It is something we would have to take into account,” Cllr Butt explained. “If there is to be a new owner we would have to reaffirm our decisions and have conversations with them.
“It’s about guarding our own interests and showing an ability to work with any potential new owner.”
He added that developers Quintain, who are also contributing to the funding, would need to be involved in any discourse.
American billionaire Shahid Khan reportedly tabled a bid of £800 million for Wembley Stadium last month.
The business tycoon believes the potential sale would be good for both the development of the stadium and the FA.
Brent Council has been a longstanding proponent of the improvements along Olympic Way, despite some opposition.
Cllr Shafique Choudhary, for example, questioned whether it was wise to spend millions on the project.
But Cllr Shama Tatler, responsible for regeneration at the council, said people should focus on the “scheme as a whole” and “what it brings to the borough”.
And council chief executive Carolyn Downs said all three sections of the walkway should provide net income.
She also confirmed that the contribution put forward was inclusive of VAT, despite some reports suggesting this was still to be added.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel