KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 28): Battersea Power Station has confirmed that Apple will be the largest office tenant at its 500,000 sq ft development in London, utilising almost half of the facility as a new campus.

In a statement today, the project's developer said Apple is set to move into the area in 2021.

About 1,400 Apple employees from existing offices around London will relocate to this new development at one of London's best known landmarks. This is seen as "a great opportunity to have its entire team working and collaborating in one location while supporting the renovation of a neighbourhood rich with history".

It is understood that the transaction represents the largest office letting in London's wider West End in the last 20 years.

"We are delighted to welcome Apple to Battersea Power Station, London's most iconic development," Battersea Holding Company Ltd chairman Datuk Johan Ariffin said in the statement.

"This move by a brand of such calibre will serve to generate even more interest in Battersea with its vibrant mix of commercial, exciting retail and residential offerings in a cultural setting designed to drive innovation and enterprise. Apple can only strengthen this formula for success," said Johan.

The Battersea Power Station development extends to over 42 acres (17ha) of prime riverside land which is being regenerated to accommodate the largest mixed-use project in Central London.

Managed by Britain-based Battersea Power Station Development Co, it is owned by Malaysian shareholders Sime Darby Bhd, S P Setia Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said Apple's move will help to generate new jobs and economic prosperity for Londoners.

"It is a further sign that London is open to the biggest brands in the world and the leading city for trade and investment," he said.

The award-winning project, which is now under construction, has planning consent for over 8.5 million sq ft of space which is split approximately 50:50 between commercial uses and residential.

The commercial element is populated by shops, restaurants, hotels, arts and event spaces and will also include the largest new office district in Central London.

The power station is located just minutes from Chelsea and the neighbouring 200-acre Battersea Park, both of which are easily reached by foot via Chelsea Bridge and the Thames footpath respectively.