Although synonymous with live music, Wembley Arena in north-west London is also one of the capital’s most iconic sporting venues. In recent years, it has hosted snooker, darts, hockey and wrestling events.
It is London’s second largest indoor arena after North Greenwich Arena.
The design and build
Wembley Arena was built for the 1934 British Empire Games (now known as the Commonwealth Games) and originally housed a swimming pool. The pool was last used for the London 1948 Olympic Games.
Along with the renovation of the adjacent Wembley Stadium, Wembley Arena recently underwent refurbishment. Comparatively little has been done to prepare the venue for hosting Badminton and Rhythmic Gymnastics during the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Flooring, lighting and other competition requirements have been installed within the arena, while temporary training, warm-up halls and an operations compound are provided.
After the Games
The arena will return to its role as a world-class live music and sports venue.
