ExCel London
McLaren Construction at ExCeL London Expansion Project
The £220 million expansion of ExCeL London will extend the venue’s existing 100,000m2 exhibition and conference facilities by 25%.
Key points
Enhancing world-class conference, event and exhibition facilities
McLaren successfully delivered the £220 million expansion of ExCeL London, increasing the venue’s capacity by 25% and reinforcing its position as a global leader in the events and exhibitions sector. The project added state-of-the-art convention facilities, exhibition halls, conference rooms, catering areas, and external terraces - seamlessly integrated with the existing 100,000m² venue.
The expansion also enhanced the public realm, including improved pedestrian access and a revitalised dockside promenade, creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for visitors and the local community.
Delivering under pressure: Fromula E and live events
A unique challenge of the project was its intersection with the 2.09km ABB FIA Formula E World Championship racetrack, which weaves through and around the venue. McLaren constructed the section of track running directly through the live construction site - at a critical point where cars transition from the fastest straight into one of the tightest corners.
Each year, McLaren coordinated a three-week programme to accommodate the race infrastructure, including installation of a pedestrian bridge, viewing gallery, lighting, crash barriers, and branding. This was delivered without disruption to ExCeL’s packed calendar of international events, a key requirement for the client.
Sustainable design, complex logisitics
The project was delivered in a highly constrained environment - bordered by the Royal Docks, a DLR viaduct, and under the flight path of London City Airport. McLaren managed complex logistics with precision, ensuring uninterrupted access for deliveries, maintaining clean and safe pedestrian routes, and minimising noise and light disruption to neighbouring hotels.
Sustainability was embedded throughout. The extension is a net zero carbon ready building, constructed using 50% recycled steel and targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating. Key features include solar panels, air source heat pumps, hybrid ventilation, and rainwater harvesting - demonstrating McLaren’s commitment to climate resilience and responsible construction.
Taking over as main contractor in November 2022, McLaren integrated seamlessly with the existing delivery team - Gardiner & Theobald, Grimshaw Architects, Hoare Lea, and Campbell Reith - and delivered the project on time for ExCeL’s October 2024 event programme.
