NEWS

£1b Olympia investment plan given the go-ahead

Published on: 1st February 2019

The £1b privately funded project to transform the iconic 133-year-old venue was launched in 2018.

In July last year, Olympia launched the biggest investment plan in its history, and has now announced that, following consultation with exhibitors, visitors and the local community, planning has been approved in full by Hammersmith & Fulham Council.

The approved vision, as laid out by the venue managers, is for Olympia London to become a world-leading cultural hub. The designs include an extended high-end events space, communal areas and co-working spaces, as well as new leisure facilities, on-site accommodation and food offerings. A new logistics centre will enable more efficient traffic marshalling, with each enhancement helping to “elevate the site to a truly world class venue”.

Nigel Nathan, managing director, Olympia, commented: “As the jewel in the crown of our industry, Olympia London has created lifelong memories for millions of people and with this investment, we will continue to do so whilst retaining our portfolio of events. Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter in Olympia London’s rich history.”

In a statement to the BTHA, the venue sought to reassure events organisers, commenting: “As ever, your business remains our priority and we will stay open throughout construction works. We are determined to minimise any potential inconvenience to events and have appointed over 50 experts, including Mace, Voyage Control and Momentum to develop a detailed logistics plan. Now planning has been granted, we will work in collaboration with the appointed developers on the phasing of construction. Our priority is to minimise the impact of works to your event and we will share further details when these are available.”

Majen Immink, director of Fairs and Special Events at the BTHA, added: “We are in close contact with Olympia to ensure that we are kept updated once plans/schedules begin to take shape. We have not been informed of any impact to Toy Fair moving forward but shall keep you fully updated on developments. The 2020 show will proceed as normal from 21-23 January. Applications for the 2020 show are now open and you can apply online here.”

RECENT ARTICLES

Easter treats … it’s the Easter Blog!

INDX Toy & Gift announces heritage theme for 2024 event

L.O.L. Surprise! has ‘smashing’ results with new campaign

Topps unveils giant Andy Robertson trading card mosaic

Hasbro Women Innovators of Play returns

International Day of Play to champion children’s right to play

Hot Wheels unveils Autism-friendly die cast car

Cobi sponsors We Have Ways Fest 2024

Pip and Posy come to life at Bandai Namco Cross Store

Ravensburger to distribute Othello