Sadiq Khan set to make decision on London's controversial MSG sphere within weeks

A $2 billion identical venue opened in Las Vegas in September with rock band U2 beginning a 36-show residency there.

Plans for the Stratford sphere were approved by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) last year, despite fierce opposition from some locals.

Levelling Up and Housing Secretary Michael Gove has hinted he wants to further scrutinise the scheme.

In February this year, he issued an Article 31 holding directive, preventing the LLDC and City Hall from signing off the plans before the Government has has time to inspect them.

If Mr Khan rubber stamps the application this month, it will be sent to the Government for final approval.

The Mayor has been urged by City Hall politicians to refuse planning permission for the entertainment venue, amid concerns over its impact on wildlife.

Members of the London Assembly environment committee warned the ball-shaped venue would produce unacceptable light levels.

A spokeswoman for Mr Khan did not directly respond to the committee’s recommendation, but said the Mayor already asks boroughs to develop their own night-time strategies to address “all aspects of life at night”.