Leyton Orient partner with Waltham Forest Council to transform East London

Leyton Orient Football Club and The London Borough of Waltham Forest (LBWF) have taken an important step forward in a shared ambition to deliver one of London’s most exciting regeneration opportunities.

Both parties recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to underline their strong alignment of vision and a commitment to collaborate on the first phase of a transformational new-stadium project.

This project will be powered by private capital and is designed to deliver lasting returns for Leyton Orient Football Club, residents of Leyton, Waltham Forest and Greater London, while also redefining sport and culture in East London.

Club Leadership Perspective

David Gandler, Majority Shareholder at Leyton Orient Football Club, said:

“We are committed to building upon the club’s inspiring history and its legacy as a beacon of hope in our diverse and vibrant community. This project will not only secure Leyton Orient’s long-term future but will also lay the groundwork for a new home that delivers lasting value for the community and protects the club’s pledge to offering affordable football in the heart of East London.”

Project Vision

This landmark initiative represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a world-class destination for English football, global sport, innovation and entertainment. The club aims to build a modern sports campus, including a stadium with the capacity to support Leyton Orient’s ambitions to compete in the Championship, while also hosting a wide variety of events and leisure facilities.

The project is envisioned as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation and enhanced community opportunities, aligning with Waltham Forest Council’s long-term missions for inclusive growth, culture-led regeneration, sporting excellence, climate action and increased biodiversity.

CEO Statement

Mark Devlin, CEO of Leyton Orient Football Club, said:

“A new venue is critical for us to continue our growth and success. While Brisbane Road holds a special place in our history, its current limitations prevent us from achieving our full potential both on and off the pitch. A move is a necessary evolution to help us achieve our ambition of one day competing in the Championship and to create a financially sustainable future for the club, our supporters and our community.”

Community Impact

At the heart of this vision is a commitment to the football club and the unique identity and vibrant spirit of East London. It is intended for any new development to deliver extensive public value — from new facilities for youth and multi-gender sports to a model of equitable growth for London’s communities. It will be designed to honour the club’s heritage while creating a living legacy for generations to come.

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Sustainability Commitment

Another key element of the vision is sustainability: a zero-carbon development that is energy efficient and committed to urban greening and biodiversity net gain. A new campus may include publicly accessible green spaces and pedestrian/cycle links to the wider area, in line with the council’s ambitions. This focus ensures the project will be both resilient and welcoming for all.

Council Statement

Cllr Grace Williams, Leader of Waltham Forest Council, said:

“Leyton Orient FC is an important local institution that is hugely valued by residents and the council. We have been delighted with the recent successes of both the men’s and women’s teams on the pitch, and we are determined to do all we can to support our local club continue its exciting journey and, at the same time, create opportunities for the area of Leyton.

“The club’s vision for a new stadium aligns with our aim to bring more jobs and training opportunities to local people, build much-needed homes and increase the money flowing into the local economy.  We will do whatever we can to support the O’s.”

Local MP Support

Calvin Bailey MBE, MP for Leyton and Wanstead, said:

“This is an amazing opportunity that will help us deliver the homes we need, support growth in our local economy, and allow Leyton Orient to reach its potential. It is a true asset to be blessed with a club that sees its future right at the heart of the community. Come on you O’s.”

Gandler added:

“Relocating within the borough of Waltham Forest to a state-of-the-art venue could also pave the way for a vital new housing development on the current stadium site, helping to address the borough’s pressing need for more affordable homes.”

Heritage and Legacy

The year 2031 will mark the 150th anniversary of Leyton Orient Football Club — one of London’s oldest and most storied sporting institutions. Delivering a new campus in time for this milestone represents a special opportunity to celebrate that legacy with a bold new home rooted in community, purpose and pride.

Next Steps

Leyton Orient and Waltham Forest Council will work together to establish the feasibility and delivery of this ambitious project. This includes identifying a suitable site and progressing through the necessary legal, planning and construction stages.

The club will actively engage with supporters and stakeholders from the outset and will provide regular updates as the project progresses. Leyton Orient supporters, the London Mayor, neighbouring councils, local businesses and resident communities will be engaged throughout the development to ensure the project benefits all.

Source & imagery, courtesy: Leyton Orient

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