By David Gold
November 24 – Chelsea have appointed Mike Hussey, chief executive of property investment and development company Almacantar, to investigate the possibility of the club constructing a new stadium at Battersea Power Station.
The Premier League side have been looking to build a new stadium or renovate their existing Stamford Bridge home, but were recently blocked from purchasing the freehold to their current ground by Chelsea Pitch Owners, something which is a prerequisite to the proposed relocation.
The decision to look at the Battersea site has been taken so that they will not miss out on a potential move if it proves to be the ideal location for a new ground.
The construction of a stadium seating up to 60,000 is a key part of the club’s long term goals as they look to increase their revenues.
A Chelsea spokesman said: “In the past, we’ve talked to various people with interests in Battersea Power Station, but we haven’t had any substantive discussions with anyone regarding that site for several months.
“However, in light of current developments, we now think it prudent to look again at the feasibility and potential for the BPS site to be developed for a football stadium.
“We have made no decision to leave Stamford Bridge, and we continue to discuss with the local council any economically viable options to expand the Bridge.
“We will continue to investigate various options close to Stamford Bridge.”
Battersea Power Station has been empty for almost 20 years, and has significant debts to a number of creditors, including Lloyds Banking Group.
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