QPR Announce Intention to Build 40,000 Capacity Stadium in Old Oak

Queens Park Rangers have announced plans to build a new 40,000-seater stadium in the Old Oak area of north-west London.

The Championship club has been looking for alternative plans to their 18,000 capacity Loftus Road stadium in Shepherds Bush and aim to move into the new ground in 2018.

They now look set to move to Old Oak as a part of the regeneration of the area which will be complete with commercial buildings and 24,000 new homes.

The regeneration will cost £10bn on the 100-acre site and is being described as the new Canary Wharf.

QPR Chairman, Tony Fernandes, said: “Loftus Road is – and always will be – a special place for the club and our supporters, but we need more than an 18,000 capacity.

“With no option of expanding here, we have to look elsewhere and we welcome the Mayor’s and Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s commitment to regenerate the area, which includes an option to develop a new stadium at Old Oak as a key catalyst to bring forward redevelopment, cementing our future in this part of West London.

“Not only will this give us a top quality stadium to cater for QPR’s needs as the club progresses and grows over the years ahead, but we are very excited about being the driving force behind creating one of the best new urban places in the world.”

QPR’s CEO Philip Beard also said that the club would be consulting with fans on the proposed move.

Beard commented: “We look forward to working with the Mayor and local authorities and we will, of course, be consulting our loyal and passionate supporters, as well as the local community, on our exciting plans early next year. We will look to build a stadium QPR fans and local residents can be proud of.

“Loftus Road is renowned for its atmosphere and with the help of our supporters, replicating that at our new stadium will be one of our top priorities.”