Chelsea Football Club is reportedly exploring the possibility of leaving Stamford Bridge and relocating to a new stadium at Earl's Court in their quest for a larger, more modern facility. The club's owners have prioritized increasing the stadium's capacity, currently at 40,343, but have faced significant challenges in redeveloping their historic home. This has prompted them to consider alternative sites in West London.
Discussions have taken place between Chelsea, Transport for London (TfL), and the real estate developer Delancey, which are involved in the redevelopment of the Earl's Court site. The current master plan for Earl's Court, overseen by the Earl's Court Development Committee (ECDC), does not include a football stadium, focusing instead on creating a mixed-use development that includes housing, jobs, and cultural spaces. However, if the development plans prove too costly or encounter other obstacles, Chelsea might have an opportunity to propose a multi-use football stadium, which could include provisions for affordable housing.
Chelsea has reportedly drawn up plans for a stadium at the Lillie Bridge depot, part of the Earl's Court site. Jason Gannon, the club's chief executive, has been leading these negotiations. However, any move would require the approval of Chelsea Pitch Owners, who hold the freehold of Stamford Bridge and could potentially block the relocation.
While the idea of staying at Stamford Bridge has not been entirely ruled out, redevelopment at the current site presents logistical difficulties due to its proximity to a tube line. A potential rebuild could necessitate a temporary relocation, likely to Wembley Stadium, for several years. Chelsea has already made some preparations for a rebuild by purchasing a 1.2-acre site next to Stamford Bridge from the housing charity Stoll.
If Chelsea decides to pursue the Earl's Court option, they would need to submit a bid for the site, which is estimated to be worth around £500 million. However, the club's plans could be complicated by internal issues, as a reported rift between co-owners Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly may affect decision-making.
Despite the talks, a spokesperson for the ECDC has stated that their primary focus remains on their current master plan, which prioritizes housing and jobs and does not include provisions for a football stadium. Development at Earl's Court is expected to begin in 2026, with the first residents moving in by 2030.
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