New arena launched by Malaysian PM

The Prime Minister of Malaysia has officially launched the UK’s largest brownfield development project, which includes a large arena and thousands of homes. This new town, named “Brabazon,” is being developed by the Malaysian-owned YTL Group and is located on the site of the former Filton Airfield, on the border of Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

The project will include 6,500 new homes, a 15-acre park, a 19,000-capacity carbon-neutral arena, three schools, and other supporting amenities. At the launch ceremony held in London on Wednesday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that the new trade agreement between the UK and Malaysia represents a "golden opportunity." The UK officially joined the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in December 2024, which has further strengthened the collaboration between YTL Group in the UK and Malaysia.

The developers hope that this new town, costing approximately £2 billion, will become the UK’s most sustainable project. This Copenhagen-inspired project aims to allow people to access essential services, including workplaces, schools, shops, public transport, and healthcare, within a 15-minute radius of their homes. Investment Minister Baroness Gustafson stated at the launch ceremony that "YTL Group's commitment is a huge vote of confidence in the UK." She also said, "Seeing global investors putting billions of pounds into the UK economy shows that we are a destination of choice for investment."

YTL Group Executive Chairman, Tan Sri (Sir) Francis Yeoh, stated that the company's acquisition of Wessex Water in 2002 is a "shining example" of the benefits of collaboration. He said, "Malaysian investments in the UK are not just about economic growth; they reflect our commitment to fostering partnerships that drive innovation, promote prosperity, and create a better world for all." Currently, about 300 homes have been completed on the Brabazon site, with another 240 under construction. This new development plan has been in the works for approximately seven years.