Earl’s Court has been one of the biggest redevelopment sagas in London’s history. It has been in the works now for over 15 years. Plans got approval in 2013 and demolition of the Exhibition Centre began in 2014. However, since then there have been numerous hurdles, the site has changed hands, and plans have evolved. Luckily, there seems to be hope on the horizon with a recent decision by the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. As a leading architect in London, we appreciate it could mean a very exciting future for the area.

Approval

The massive 44 acre site in West London is one of the biggest redevelopment sites in the city. It has the potential to create thousands of new homes as well as fantastic amenities for the area. It’s been a tricky time though, waiting for plans to be approved.

One of the crucial things about the Earl’s Court redevelopment is the site is actually in two different London Boroughs. As a result, both councils need to approve it. Critically, Hammersmith and Fulham recently gave approval for the section under their jurisdiction. As a result, it unlocks the door for the £10bn project to move forward.

The next crucial step is for the Borough of Kensington and Chelsea to decide on the part of the masterplan in their area. If they also give the green light, the project can finally start in earnest.

What will happen?

As a top architect in London, we can’t help but keep an eye on notable projects in the city. This is especially true for massive ones like Earl’s Court. They can have a huge impact, influencing other work in the city.

There are a number of noteworthy details about the masterplan for the former Exhibition Centre site. Crucially, it is a once in a generation opportunity to create a new neighbourhood in a busy central part of the city. The project will deliver 4,000 new homes (35% affordable), a trio of new cultural venues, and an amazing 2.5 million square feet of commercial space. Additionally, almost half of the site (20 acres) will be new public realm.

Another fantastic thing here is there has been a huge amount of consultation work and engagement. A major part of this has been working with a public realm inclusivity panel (PRIP). It has given voice to a massive array of stakeholders, including in different age groups and with a diverse range of needs. It has shaped the designs for the public space to ensure it benefits everybody.

Earl’s Court will completely transform this part of London, particularly with the creation of new towers up to 42 storeys. It will be a big change for a site that has been clear and vacant for too long because of delays, opposition, and other issues.

Discuss plans with a creative architect in London

Coffey Architects takes a lot of inspiration from the areas we work in and the incredible people that live, work, and spend time in them. It ensures we can deliver the most amazing projects.

So, if you want to work with a fantastic architect in London, talk to us. You can also learn more about us and our work by browsing our website.