Planning documents recently submitted to Brent Council have revealed that Wembley Stadium may be on track for a significant security overhaul ahead of major sporting and entertainment events.
The proposals, put forward by Wembley National Stadium Limited and backed by The Football Association, would see around £2 million invested in enhancements around VIP entry points, gates and perimeter fencing, designed to bolster safety while keeping the stadium welcoming.
If approved, the plans would introduce new security gates and fencing at key locations such as the north-east and north-west entrances, as well as replacement of roller shutters with more effective gates at the Level B2 stands.
Additional fence toppers along external ramp areas would strengthen the stadium’s external line of defence and help manage crowd access during high-profile matches and events.
What the Wembley Stadium security upgrade plan involves
The planning application outlines a set of targeted adjustments to existing infrastructure rather than a full rebuild, prioritising improved crowd control and rapid lockdown capability when needed.
According to London Now, proposed works will focus on integrating protective measures into Wembley’s existing architecture, so that security features enhance safety without overshadowing the stadium’s iconic design.
Officials have said that the upgrades would help streamline flow into the venue and provide additional buffer zones for guests arriving at events.
At Level B2 VIP portals, protected entries would create safer transition spaces between vehicle access and the main stadium concourse.
The upgraded gates and lateral fence toppers are also aimed at deterring unauthorised access attempts, an ongoing priority since crowd-control issues were analysed in past major fixtures.
The application is currently under review by Brent Council, with local authorities expected to evaluate the proposals in the coming weeks.
A decision will need to balance enhanced safety needs against event-day operations and visitor experience, particularly ahead of a busy schedule of domestic finals, concerts and international fixtures.
Safety at Wembley has long been a high-profile topic, not only because the stadium hosts the England men’s and women’s national teams but also because it stages major events such as the FA Cup final, Champions League showpiece matches and large-scale concerts.
Previous crowd incidents at major finals have prompted ongoing discussions about how best to protect fans, reduce pressure points and manage large groups of spectators in and around the stadium precinct.
FGG Says
Wembley’s proposed £2 million security upgrade should be seen as an investment in trust and safety for everyone who walks through those gates. Wembley stands at the heart of English football culture, yet its role as a national venue brings unique challenges that require ongoing investment.
If events like Euro finals and concerts continue to draw huge crowds, Wembley must lead by example in stadium safety. Delivering this upgrade thoughtfully and transparently would reassure supporters that their wellbeing matters as much as the spectacle they come to enjoy.