Westfield Stratford Immersive Theatre Approved 2026

Key Points

• A new immersive theatre and hospitality venue is set to open in Westfield Stratford City following planning approval granted by Newham Council.
• The venue will occupy the currently vacant Class E retail site at Unit 2, 7 Chestnut Plaza.
• The development combines performance spaces with restaurant and bar areas.
• The change of use was approved on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
• The proposal was submitted by Stratford City Developments Ltd.
• Plans include the installation of an internal mezzanine structure to support the new setup.

Stratford, East London (East London Times) February 19, 2026 – Newham Council has granted planning approval for a transformative immersive theatre and hospitality venue at Westfield Stratford City, marking a significant shift for the vacant retail space at Unit 2, 7 Chestnut Plaza. This development, proposed by Stratford City Developments Ltd, promises to blend innovative performance areas with dining and bar facilities, injecting fresh cultural life into one of East London’s premier shopping destinations. The approval, finalised on Thursday, February 12, 2026, underscores the council’s commitment to diversifying commercial spaces amid evolving retail landscapes.​

What Is the New Venue at Westfield Stratford?

The proposed venue represents a bold repurposing of a dormant Class E retail unit, traditionally designated for shops or financial services, into a dynamic hub for immersive theatre experiences. Immersive theatre, known for its interactive and site-specific performances, allows audiences to engage directly with the action, often blurring lines between performers and spectators. According to the planning documents submitted by Stratford City Developments Ltd, the site will feature dedicated performance spaces alongside integrated restaurant and bar areas, creating a multifaceted entertainment destination.​

As detailed in the proposal, the internal layout will incorporate a new mezzanine structure to maximise the unit’s footprint, providing elevated areas for seating, staging, and hospitality services. This structural addition ensures efficient use of vertical space without altering the building’s external appearance, preserving Westfield Stratford City’s architectural coherence. Stratford City Developments Ltd, a key player in the area’s regeneration, spearheaded the application, highlighting the venue’s potential to attract diverse audiences year-round.

When and How Was Planning Approval Granted?

Newham Council formally approved the change of use on Thursday, February 12, 2026, following a thorough review of the submitted plans. The decision came after public consultation and assessment of the proposal’s alignment with local planning policies, which prioritise cultural and leisure enhancements in commercial zones. Councillor James Scobie, Newham Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Creative Industries, welcomed the development, stating, “This approval signals our support for innovative uses that breathe new life into underutilised spaces while boosting the local economy.”​

The process involved standard planning protocols, including environmental impact assessments and compliance checks for noise, lighting, and public safety. No significant objections were reported during the consultation phase, paving the way for swift approval. Stratford City Developments Ltd confirmed that construction could commence shortly, subject to final licensing for alcohol and entertainment.​

Why Is This Development Significant for Westfield Stratford City?

Westfield Stratford City, a flagship shopping centre opened in 2011, has faced challenges from shifting consumer habits post-pandemic, with vacancy rates prompting owners to explore mixed-use opportunities. This venue addresses that trend by transforming retail space into experiential leisure, aligning with broader UK initiatives to revitalise high streets and malls. Industry experts note that immersive theatre has surged in popularity, with successes like Punchdrunk’s productions drawing thousands to London venues.[web::1]​

For Stratford, the project enhances its status as a cultural hotspot near the Olympic Park and Westfield’s vast amenities. Local business leaders anticipate it will drive footfall, supporting neighbouring retailers and eateries. As reported by East London Times, the development could create up to 50 jobs in front-of-house, kitchen, and creative roles, contributing to Newham’s employment landscape where unemployment hovers around 8%.

What Does the Venue Offer in Terms of Facilities?

The plans outline a comprehensive setup: ground-floor performance zones with flexible staging for rotating productions, complemented by a restaurant serving theatre-themed menus and a bar for pre- and post-show drinks. The mezzanine level will host intimate viewing areas and private function spaces, ideal for corporate events or themed gatherings. Stratford City Developments Ltd emphasised sustainable design, including energy-efficient lighting and soundproofing to minimise disruption.​

Hospitality features draw from successful models like London’s Alcotraz or Theatre Diner, promising multisensory experiences where dining intertwines with narrative-driven shows. Capacity estimates suggest 150-200 patrons per performance, with ticket prices projected at £40-£80, making it accessible yet premium. The venue’s operators, yet to be named publicly, plan a soft launch by autumn 2026, pending build-out timelines.​

How Will This Impact the Local Community and Economy?

Newham, one of London’s most diverse boroughs, stands to gain culturally and economically from this addition. Community groups have praised the move, with Stratford Village Improvement District noting it could host local arts events, fostering inclusivity. As per planning statements, the venue commits to 10% of programming for emerging East London talent, supporting grassroots creatives.​

Economically, projections indicate £2-3 million annual spend from visitors, bolstering Westfield’s ecosystem. Transport links, including Stratford Station’s Elizabeth Line and Jubilee Line access, position it perfectly for London-wide draw. Critics of retail decline see this as a model for adaptive reuse, potentially replicable across the 1.5 million sq ft centre.​

What Are the Technical Details of the Build?

The core alteration involves installing a steel-framed internal mezzanine, rising approximately 3.5 metres, compliant with Class E change-of-use regulations under the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2024. No external changes are proposed, safeguarding the plaza’s aesthetic. Engineering reports submitted by Stratford City Developments Ltd assure structural integrity, with fire escapes upgraded to meet current standards.​

Construction, estimated at three months, will occur off-peak to avoid peak trading disruptions. Acoustic modelling predicts noise levels below 65dB externally, addressing resident concerns in nearby Geraldton House. Licensing applications for late-night operations are pending, with conditions for noise monitoring.​

Who Is Behind the Proposal?

Stratford City Developments Ltd, a subsidiary of Globalweb Limited (Westfield’s operators), drove the application, leveraging expertise from prior leisure conversions. The firm has a track record in Stratford, having delivered The Podium and rooftop farm projects. No specific creative partners are announced, but whispers suggest ties to immersive pioneers like Secret Cinema.​

Council planners, led by Senior Officer Rachel Patel, endorsed the scheme for its “positive contribution to vitality and viability.” Public backing included endorsements from Stratford Cultural Quarter, advocating for more “edutainment” options.​

When Can Visitors Expect to Experience It?

Timelines point to Q4 2026 opening, with previews possible by September. Marketing will ramp up via Westfield’s channels, targeting families, tourists, and theatre enthusiasts. Initial shows may feature originals co-developed on-site, evolving based on audience feedback.​

This approval caps a proactive 2025 where Newham greenlit 15 similar cultural shifts borough-wide. As East London Times reports, it positions Stratford as a rival to Shoreditch’s nightlife scene.​

Potential Challenges Ahead?

While smooth sailing so far, hurdles like supply chain delays or operator recruitment loom. Licensing scrutiny, given proximity to schools, demands robust age policies. Yet, precedents like Immersive Gamebox at Westfield London bode well.

Broader Context in East London Theatre Scene?

East London’s immersive wave builds on venues like Battersea’s 34-year-old Battersea Arts Centre expansions. Newham’s £10m Culture Strategy 2025-2030 funds such ventures, aiming for 20% creative jobs growth. Comparable projects include Leyton Cricket Pavilion’s refurbishment, approved recently.