Featured image credit: ECDC
Chelsea has reportedly held talks over building a new stadium in Earl’s Court as the Premier League club weighs up its future at Stamford Bridge.
According to the The Guardian, Chelsea has held discussions with Transport for London (TfL), which is involved in a proposed plan to regenerate Earl’s Court. Chelsea chief executive Jason Gannon is also said to have held “productive” talks with real estate company Delancey.
Previous reports have suggested that Chelsea could consider building a new 60,000-seat stadium in Earl’s Court. In March 2023, the company overseeing the regeneration of Earl’s Court “categorically denied” reports that it was in talks with the club.
Chelsea has been assessing its stadium options and is weighing up whether to upgrade Stamford Bridge or develop a new venue. Owner Todd Boehly has made the redevelopment of Stamford Bridge one of his key priorities since purchasing the club in May 2022.
The Guardian notes that the Earl’s Court Development Committee’s (ECDC) plans to regenerate the area (pictured) will be presented to local councils next week. The plans do not currently include a football stadium, and if the project is deemed too expensive it could open the door for Chelsea to step in.
According to the report, Chelsea has “drawn up plans” for a stadium in Earl’s Court, with the Lillie Bridge depot area having been earmarked as a potential location.
In April, Chelsea’s ownership group BlueCo completed the purchase of the Sir Oswald Stoll Mansions site from Stoll, which provides houses for veterans. The site is located next to Stamford Bridge and the acquisition of the land would make it easier for Chelsea to carry out a renovation of the stadium.
Despite the acquisition, Chelsea’s future stadium plans remain unconfirmed. So far, the club has not committed to redeveloping Stamford Bridge or building a new stadium from scratch.
With a capacity of around 42,000, Stamford Bridge is the smallest stadium of the Premier League’s ‘big six’ clubs.
Any plans Chelsea has for a new stadium are somewhat complicated by the current situation surrounding the club’s ownership. Reports emerged over the weekend that Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the club’s majority owner, are looking to buy each other out, with a rift said to have emerged between the two parties.
Responding to the latest report, ECDC said: “There is no plan within our plans for Chelsea FC to relocate to the Earl’s Court site.
“We have a fully detailed design, shortly to be registered with both local authorities, which prioritises the delivery of thousands of homes and jobs, culture and open space through a well-designed and considered master plan which has evolved over four years of engagement. This will see development commence in 2026 with the first residents and occupiers moving in from 2030. This is, and will remain, our primary focus.”
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