Chelsea Football Club has been given permission by the mayor of London to build a new £500m 60,000-seat stadium. Hammersmith and Fulham Council approved the plans in January to demolish the current 41,600-capacity Stamford Bridge stadium.
Th e mayor has the fi nal say on major planning applications in London. Earlier, Sadiq Khan said the “high quality and spectacular design” would add to the capital’s “fantastic array of sporting arenas”. Image copyright ChelseaFC/ Herzog & de Meuron Image caption An artist’s impression of the proposed new Stamford Bridge stadium He continued: “Having taken a balanced view of the application, I’m satisfi ed this is a high-quality and spectacular design which will signifi cantly increase capacity within the existing site, as well as ensuring fans can have easy access from nearby transport connections. “I’m confi dent this new stadium will be a jewel in London’s sporting crown and will attract visitors and football fans from around the world.” Th e plans include an elevated walkway from Fulham Broadway station, plus a £12m investment from the club in community activities, such as employment and skills training, as well as a contribution of £3.75m towards aff ordable housing in the borough. Chelsea FC said it was “delighted” with the decision. “Following a review by mayor of London Sadiq Khan, we are delighted he has chosen to support the council’s decision.
” Trizia Fiorellino, chair of the Chelsea Supporters Group, said: “It’s obviously fantastic news for us. Spurs have got a new stadium, West Ham have got a new one, we were in danger of being left behind – but this is great news for Chelsea fans.” Th e new stadium has been designed by architects Herzog and de Meuron, who were also responsible for the “Birds Nest” Olympic stadium in Beijing
