Croydon Decathlon Expansion: 2,409sqm Retail Space and Gym

Key Points

• Croydon’s Decathlon store at 1 Trafalgar Way is proposing an expansion through a mezzanine floor installation.
• The expansion would add 2,409 square metres of retail space entirely within the existing building.
• Up to £2 million investment is planned, subject to planning approval from Croydon Council.
• The project includes creating space for a new gym facility.
• Minor external alterations are proposed, with no increase in the building’s height.
• Parking and access arrangements would remain unchanged.
• Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 and complete by August 2026, if permission is granted.
• The planning application has been submitted by 0171 Croydon Trafway RP (Freeholdco) Limited and is now under decision by Croydon Council.

Croydon (South London News) January 30, 2026 – Plans to expand the Decathlon store at 1 Trafalgar Way in Croydon could introduce an additional 2,409 square metres of retail space and a dedicated gym, backed by up to £2 million in investment, pending approval from Croydon Council. The applicant, 0171 Croydon Trafway RP (Freeholdco) Limited, has submitted a planning application for a mezzanine floor to be built entirely within the existing structure, ensuring no height increase or changes to parking and access. If approved, construction would commence in June 2026 and conclude by August 2026.​

What Are the Proposed Changes to the Decathlon Store?

The expansion centres on installing a mezzanine floor within the current Decathlon building at 1 Trafalgar Way. This internal modification would boost the store’s total internal area by precisely 2,409 square metres, dedicated to enhanced retail space and a new gym facility. As outlined in the planning submission, the development avoids any external expansion that would alter the building’s footprint or height, preserving the surrounding environment’s character.​

Minor external alterations are anticipated, though specifics remain limited in the application details. These tweaks are described as minimal, focusing on functionality without impacting the structure’s overall appearance. Parking and access arrangements would stay unchanged, addressing potential concerns over increased traffic in the busy retail area.​

Who Submitted the Planning Application?

0171 Croydon Trafway RP (Freeholdco) Limited serves as the applicant for this project. The company has formally lodged the application with Croydon Council, which has now progressed to the decision-making stage. This freehold entity appears positioned to oversee the investment, reportedly up to £2 million, to realise the expansion’s potential.​

Croydon Council’s planning department is currently reviewing the proposal. No public consultation details have been specified in available reports, but the application’s advancement indicates it meets initial validation criteria.​

What Investment Is Involved in the Expansion?

Up to £2 million in investment is earmarked for the project, covering the mezzanine construction, retail enhancements, and gym setup. This funding would support the internal build-out, ensuring the store can accommodate more inventory and fitness amenities without external disruption. Subject to approval, these resources promise to invigorate the site’s offerings in a competitive retail landscape.​

The investment underscores Decathlon’s commitment to growth in Croydon, a key location in south London’s shopping ecosystem. While exact breakdowns—such as costs for the gym versus retail—remain undisclosed, the figure reflects comprehensive planning for swift execution.​

When Would Construction Begin and End?

Construction work is proposed to start in June 2026, with an expected completion by August 2026, assuming planning permission is granted. This tight two-month timeline suggests prefabricated elements or efficient phasing to minimise disruption to store operations and local traffic. The schedule aligns with summer months, potentially capitalising on lower retail peaks for smoother implementation.​

Delays could arise if councillors request revisions or if public objections surface during the decision process. Nonetheless, the applicant’s projections indicate confidence in meeting these dates post-approval.​

What Retail Space Gains Are Expected?

The additional 2,409 square metres would primarily expand retail floorspace, allowing Decathlon to stock a broader range of sports equipment, apparel, and accessories. Built as a mezzanine, this upper level would optimise vertical space within the existing envelope, enhancing shopper flow and product accessibility. Retailers like Decathlon often cite such upgrades as vital for competing with online giants and nearby outlets.​

What Gym Facilities Are Planned?

A standout feature is the inclusion of a gym facility, transforming part of the new space into a fitness hub. This aligns with trends where sports retailers integrate experiential services, such as training zones, to boost footfall and loyalty. References to similar developments, like a third-space gym in a nearby retail-leisure centre, highlight growing demand for on-site wellness options.​

The gym would occupy a portion of the mezzanine, complementing Decathlon’s ethos of active lifestyles. Details on equipment, capacity, or membership models are not yet public, but it promises to draw fitness enthusiasts to Trafalgar Way.​

Will There Be Changes to Parking or Access?

No alterations to parking or access are planned, maintaining current provisions for customers and staff. This decision reassures locals wary of congestion in Croydon’s retail zones, where Trafalgar Way already handles significant volumes. The internal focus of the build eliminates needs for additional bays or road modifications.​

What External Alterations Are Proposed?

External changes are confined to minor adjustments, such as potential signage or ventilation for the gym. Critically, the building’s height remains unaltered, safeguarding sightlines and architectural harmony. These restrained modifications aim to secure swift council validation by minimising visual or structural impacts.​

What Is the Current Status of the Planning Application?

Croydon Council has received and validated the application from 0171 Croydon Trafway RP (Freeholdco) Limited, forwarding it for a formal decision. As of January 30, 2026, it awaits determination, with no reported objections or support campaigns in public records. Councillors will weigh factors like economic benefits against any heritage or residential concerns near 1 Trafalgar Way.​

The process typically involves officer recommendations, possibly a planning committee review if contentious. Decathlon’s established presence may favour approval, given job retention and local investment pledges.​

Why Is This Expansion Significant for Croydon?

Croydon’s retail sector faces post-pandemic pressures, making Decathlon’s £2 million commitment a boon for jobs and vitality. The gym addition taps into wellness booms, potentially creating 10-20 roles in fitness instruction and maintenance, though exact figures are unconfirmed. Situated in a bustling area, the upgrade could anchor Trafalgar Way as a sports destination.​

Local businesses may benefit from spillover traffic, while council tax revenues rise from enhanced operations. Critics might question intensification, but the no-height-change pledge mitigates skyline worries.​

How Does This Fit Broader Retail Trends?

Decathlon’s move mirrors UK chains blending retail with leisure, as seen in linked reports of gyms in retail-leisure centres. Mezzanine expansions offer cost-effective growth amid high street revivals. In Croydon, this bolsters ambitions as a commercial hub south of London.​

What Happens Next in the Approval Process?

Stakeholders await Croydon Council’s verdict, potentially within weeks. If greenlit, June 2026 groundwork follows; rejection could prompt appeals. Residents can track via council portals, ensuring transparency.​