The long-abandoned NatWest Sports Ground, which sits on the borders of Norbury, Mitcham and Streatham, has been designated as one of London's "lost" green spaces in a major report published by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) London.
The 21-acre greenfield site, located off Turle Road, has remained derelict since 2007. Despite its status as a protected open space, Merton Council approved controversial plans in late September 2025 to develop the land under application number 24/P3406. The approved project will see the construction of 353 new homes and an 84-bed care home alongside a new community sports pavilion.
Loss of Protected Green Space Sparking Concern
The decision to build on the sports ground has drawn sharp criticism from environmental defenders. CPRE London featured the site prominently in its report, "Cashing-in on London's Parks and Countryside", warning that local public land is increasingly vulnerable to development despite protective designations. Local residents from both Merton and neighbouring Croydon have long campaigned to save the land, with organizations such as the Streatham Vale Property Owners Association (SVPOA) attending public planning committees to voice objections regarding the loss of metropolitan open space and potential traffic blockages on quiet residential roads.
The Balance Between Housing and Heritage
The developers, Matt 6:33 LLP, and council planners argue that the 353 sustainable units—which include 117 affordable homes—will help ease London's housing crisis. The project also promises to provide a new publicly accessible sports centre, tennis courts, and hockey pitches, attempting to revive some of the site's rich sporting heritage. However, campaigners point out that green open spaces represent irreplaceable natural infrastructure, particularly for South London residents in SW16.
How Residents Can Stay Informed
As the development progresses from outline planning permission toward construction, SW16 residents are advised to monitor the Merton Council planning portal under case reference 24/P3406 for detailed updates on phase schedules, environmental impact statements, and construction traffic management plans.