Earls Court Development Master Plan Drop In Visit

LETRA attended the Master Plan Concept drop session for the proposed development of Earls Court and West Kensington last week. It will effect the Lytton Estate as there is a long programme of works to be completed, this in addition to, the redevelopment of Olympia Exhibition Centre. The plans are still at a early stage and many details need to be added for a complete assessment. Though a number of concerns still hang over the project.

Several questions were put to the developers.

1/ Will local residents that need rehousing because of the proposed development, be offered accommodation in this area, if that is what they want ? The answer given was yes.

2/ What is the estimated time-scale for the projects full completion ?  25 years was the answer given !

3/ Is local labour to be employed and trained in building work, given the high unemployment rate in the area? The answer given was that they will work with local agencies to look into and help with this.

4/ Are there going to be facilities for recreation for all age groups, especially the younger people of the area ? They said it will be considered.

5/ Is the historic and vital North End Rd. market going to stay on its present pitch ? Yes, if they want to, was the answer.


All together, LETRA feel the plans are not clear enough and the promises given by H&F and the developers too loose for a verdict on the project. Considerably more consultation work needs to be done with local people, to assess the full impact of this huge scheme. 25 years of building work on our doorsteps will mean a massive amount of disruption to everyone's lives, for residents who are being rehoused by the works and for those who live nearby while they take place.

Developers website