The proposed MSG Sphere
(Picture: The Madison Square Garden Company)The proposed MSG Sphere in Stratford has caused some consternation among local residents once again, as planning chiefs have recommended that the 21,500 seater venue in Stratford be given the green light. Officers at the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) said the proposals for the MSG Sphere in Stratford were acceptable despite more than 1,000 objections from local residents and a petition against it signed by more than 2,000 people.
Part of the concern surrounds the exterior lighting of the dome, which is to be covered in LED lighting that will shine into the night sky, as well as transport problems surrounding getting people to the arena – especially on days when nearby West Ham may be playing at home.
In their report London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) officers said the venue “would provide an attractive visual backdrop for people living, working, enjoying recreational time, visiting and travelling through the metropolitan town centre.”
It acknowledged that the Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) proposal “is not universally popular or appreciated” , but concluded “its height, form and massing is considered an appropriate response to the design brief and context of this site.”
MSG say the venue will be “a state-of-the-art music and entertainment venue that will pioneer the next generation of immersive experiences.”
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