A live music venue is to be built above Olympia London’s west exhibition hall in a £1.3billion regeneration project.
With 4,400 seats, the new venue will be the largest in West London – overtaking the 3,341-seat Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith.
Olympia London owners Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance International, signed the development deal with AEG Presents, which promotes Ed Sheeran, The Rolling Stones and Elton John.
Chief executive Steve Homer said: “This is very exciting. Olympia is steeped in music history, as far back as Jimi Hendrix in the 60s.”
New Hyatt Regency and citizenM hotels, with a total of 340 rooms, will support the complex on a 14-acre West Kensington site which will also include a four-screen cinema, 1,500-seat theatre, 40 restaurants and cafes, shops, offices and 2.5 acres of gardens and public space.
The aim is to be open by Christmas 2024.
Yoo Capital chairman John Hitchcox said: “It’s been a challenging year for the events, live entertainment, retail and hospitality sectors, but this is a clear indication of confidence in this iconic landmark as a destination for culture and creativity.”
He believes the hub will boost Hammersmith & Fulham’s economy to the tune of £9m a year.
One reason investors have been so keen to back the project is accessibility. There are seven tube stations within a 15-minute walk.
“We’re creating more opportunities for all visitors to our iconic London venue,” said Olympia London managing director Nigel Nathan.
Olympia London opened in 1886 and is the capital’s busiest venue with 200 events attracting 1.6 million visitors a year. As well as Hendrix, big names who have appeared there include Pink Floyd, Rod Stewart, Status Quo, Primal Scream and The Cure.
