Report Makes Big Claims for Earls Court Redevelopment
Arup says project could generate £3billion for the economy
A visualisation of an aerial view of the Earl's Court development. Picture: ECDC
September 15, 2025
A new report by global consultancy Arup has projected that the redevelopment of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre site could generate up to £3 billion in annual economic value for the UK. Commissioned by the Earls Court Development Company (ECDC), the report outlines how the proposed transformation of the 40-acre brownfield site in West London could support more than 23,000 jobs nationwide, deliver thousands of new flats, and establish a major hub for climate innovation and cultural activity.
The masterplan for Earls Court includes 2.5 million square feet of workspace, three new cultural venues, and 20 acres of public realm. According to Arup, the site is uniquely positioned to contribute to national priorities such as the UK Industrial Strategy and the London Growth Plan. The development is expected to create 12,000 jobs on-site and support a further 11,500 across the supply chain and knowledge economy. During its 18-year construction phase, the project could sustain up to 3,000 jobs annually and generate £340 million in economic impact each year.
In addition to economic benefits, the scheme proposes the delivery of approximately 4,000 new housing units, with a target of 35% designated as affordable. The site is also intended to become a centre for clean and climate technology, with interim uses already attracting over 900,000 visitors to events such as the BBC Earth Experience and The Greatest Showman Spectacular.
Rob Heasman, Chief Executive of ECDC, described the report as evidence of the site's national significance, stating that the development is not only about economic figures but also about the communities it will support. Joanna Rowelle, Director at Arup UKIMEA, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the project's potential to deliver lasting social and environmental value.
However, the scale and ambition of the redevelopment have prompted concerns among local residents, campaigners, and housing advocates. Critics have questioned whether the proposed affordable housing will be genuinely accessible to lower-income households in the borough. Others have expressed unease about the long-term disruption caused by an 18-year construction timeline, citing potential impacts on air quality, traffic, and local infrastructure.
A newly released visualisation of the development. Picture: ECDC
The demolition of the original Earls Court Exhibition Centre in 2015 remains a point of contention for some, who argue that the loss of a historic cultural venue has not yet been adequately addressed in the new plans. Community groups have also called for clearer commitments regarding public access to green space and the ecological integrity of the proposed gardens.
Planning applications for the site are currently under review, with public consultations ongoing. As one of London’s largest regeneration schemes, the Earls Court development continues to serve as a focal point for debate about the future of urban growth, housing delivery, and community inclusion in the capital.
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