O2 operator voices worries over MSG's Stratford plan

O2 operator AEG has said it is running the rule over Madison Square Garden Company’s plans for a new music venue in Stratford “given concerns as to [their] detrimental impact”.

MSG’s proposal looks set to put it on a collision course with AEG with the latter giving notice that it would not hold back in voicing its concerns. “We will be scrutinising the application very carefully,” it said.

It said it did not oppose the principle of a new music venue in London but warned: “It is imperative that Madison Square Garden’s proposals do not add to congestion in the area, especially on the Jubilee line which is critical for the movement of guests to and from The O2 arena.”

AEG added the local transport network would be placed under strain serving a number of venues in the area: “There is a question mark over whether such a venue should be located so close to existing [ones] at the Olympic Park – such as the London Stadium and Copper Box – as well as The O2 arena.”

Fans for the O2 get off at North Greenwich while fans for the Sphere will stay on an extra three stops, getting off at Stratford.

In a statement, AEG added: “[We] always strive to ensure that its guests have the best possible experience when they visit our venues and we will work with local stakeholders to scrutinise the application in detail and ensure MSG’s plans do not affect this.”

Building understands planning authority London Legacy Development Corporation is expected to hear the MSG proposal at the end of this year.