September 26 – Chelsea are reportedly exploring the possibility of moving from Stamford Bridge to a new stadium site at Earl’s Court, as the club seeks to expand its current 40,343-seat capacity and increase match day revenues.
Increasing the stadium’s size is a priority for Chelsea’s ownership group, but the logistical challenges of redeveloping Stamford Bridge have prompted them to investigate alternative locations in west London.
Under Roman Abramovich’s ownership the club had repeatedly looked at new stadium options and even submitted a plan to the local council but later pulled away from redeveloping the stadium as cost estimates ballooned upwards and beyond the £1 billion mark.
The club has already held discussions with Transport for London and real estate developer Delancey, who manage the Earl’s Court site. However, the Earl’s Court Development Committee (ECDC) currently has no plans for a football stadium in its master plan, which focuses on a mixed-use development.
If the ECDC secures planning permission for their vision, it could pose a significant obstacle to Chelsea’s ambitions.
That said, some experts believe the high costs associated with the ECDC’s current plans may lead to a shift in favour of a football stadium, potentially including affordable housing if Chelsea’s proposal is approved.
The club has reportedly drawn up plans targeting the Lillie Bridge depot as a possible location for their new home, with chief executive Jason Gannon leading productive discussions with TfL and Delancey.
While Chelsea has not ruled out staying at Stamford Bridge, no significant progress has been made on redeveloping the site, which is complicated by its proximity to transport lines. A potential rebuild would likely force the team to play temporarily at Wembley. However, another significant hurdle for Chelsea’s expansion plans is internal conflict between co-owners Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly, with tensions rising over control of the club.
Despite these challenges, Chelsea’s owners remain committed to constructing one of the largest and most modern stadiums in England, with a potential bid for Earl’s Court estimated to be in the region of £500 million. The situation remains fluid, but a move could significantly alter the club’s future landscape.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1732517812labto1732517812ofdlr1732517812owedi1732517812sni@g1732517812niwe.1732517812yrrah1732517812