Chelsea could be homeless for six years as Boehly faces Stamford Bridge problem

06 March 2024 , 19:47

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Redevelopment of Stamford Bridge has been suggested (Image: Paul Dennis/TGS Photo/REX/Shutterstock)

Chelsea could spend six years away from Stamford Bridge if they opt to redevelop the stadium.

Reports suggest the Blues have been left with two options as they plot to establish a state of the art stadium in west London. A stay away from SW6 would allow for a rebuild on the same ground, while the alternative would be to splash the cash on land to build elsewhere.

A new stadium has been high on the agenda of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, and there was an ambition to complete a stand-by-stand rebuild. However, Stamford Bridge's location ensures plenty of difficulty in any plans, with overground and underground train lines and listed properties all in close proximity.

Supporters have already been told that it could be 2030 before any redevelopment is completed as all options are explored. However, little progress has been possible in the first 18 months of the new ownership.

In October, Chelsea agreed to purchase most of Stoll Foundation's 1.2 acre site that sits next to Stamford Bridge. The area would allow for some expansion should the ground be redeveloped.

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The £80million deal was expected to be completed early in 2024 and needs to be finalised. The west London club may not take possession of the area until 2025.

Following the club's May 2022 takeover, the future of Stamford Bridge was high on the list of things to resolve at the club. Chelsea co-owner Jonathan Goldstein said in October 2022 that he hoped to see progress within a year.

The future of Stamford Bridge is uncertain (Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

He explained: "We are looking very heavily at redevelopment... the planning process is something which we will start during the course of the next year and we'll hope central government will get behind it and see it as an engine for growth.

"The only problem, of course, is the management of interest rates because it makes it so much more expensive to develop.' When asked if the club would delay the process, he responded: 'No, no, we'll carry on as fast and as hard as we can.

"It is a big project and there are very many constituents involved and we are at the beginning. But we will carry on because we believe in the business, in Chelsea FC and the area and we know, over time, Stamford Bridge needs redevelopment."

Scott Trotter