The long-awaited confirmation of Phase 2 of the UK capital's biggest venue was formally announced last week.

The construction of Phase 2 of ExCeL London, which represents a further £160 million investment in the venue, will commence this month (August 2008).

The extension will increase current event space by almost 50%, taking it to just under 100,000 square metres – the equivalent of 14 football pitches.

The plans also include an integrated, covered walkway to Prince Regent Docklands Light Railway station, a conference centre for up to 2,000 delegates, a semi-permanent auditorium for up to 5,000 delegates, a permanent production kitchen, catering for large-scale banquets (up to 5,000 guests), and additional bars and restaurants.

Kevin Murphy, chief executive of ExCeL London, says: "This development further reinforces ExCeL London as a world class venue, which will continue to attract major events from around the world.

“The expansion will also provide huge economic benefits to the local community in terms of employment and facilities," he continued. "The venue is currently one of the Borough's biggest employers, and the expansion will bring an additional 1,400 jobs to the area.

"However, this is only the beginning, as we are already looking to put plans for the next phase of development in place, enabling ExCeL London to remain at the forefront of both the domestic and international events market."