A new, closed-road half-marathon is set to come to south London thanks to a collaboration between Merton Council and the Great Run Company, organiser of the Great North Run.

The event will take place in the London Borough of Merton in spring 2027, according to plans set to be approved by the council’s cabinet later this month.

Thousands of runners will tackle the 13.1-mile route that’s set to take them through Morden, Wimbledon and Mitcham.

Councillor Ross Garrod, Leader of Merton Council, said: “Merton is on a mission to become London’s Borough of Sport, which means putting sport at the heart of everything we do.

“Our new half-marathon will be a flagship moment in that journey, showcasing how sport can bring communities together, open doors to healthier lifestyles, and help put Merton on the map as a destination for major mass-participation events.

“We hope that this will become south London’s biggest running event, and a draw for runners across the capital and the region.

“I am so proud that Merton Council is able to team up with the Great Run Company to deliver such a fantastic lasting legacy for the people of Merton.”

The event will begin and end in Morden Park, Morden, taking advantage of the area’s transport links at the start of the Northern Line.

Sir Brendan Foster, founder and president of the Great Run Company, said: “Great events change places for the better, and that’s exactly what this half-marathon will do for Merton.

“The Great Run Company has spent decades delivering world-class mass-participation events, and we’re proud to bring that experience to a borough with the ambition to become London’s Borough of Sport.”

Local sports clubs and community groups will be actively involved in the event, ensuring the benefits are felt well beyond those crossing the start line. There will be fundraising opportunities for local charities, a local schools’ challenge, and a free 5k race to ensure that the whole community can get involved.

Image: Miguel A Amutio