The team behind the redevelopment of Alexandra Palace in north London, UK, has today (15 November) named the three companies shortlisted to take on a 125-year lease at the building.

The companies are the Business Design Centre Group; the Earls Court and Olympia Group and Heythrop Park owner Firoka.

The shortlist is the latest stage in the redevelopment process at Alexandra Palace – first announced with the selection of the project team in March 2005 – which could see the property turned into a casino, a hotel or high-capacity nightclub.

Keith Holder, general manager of Alexandra Palace and Park, said: “The response to the marketing campaign was excellent and we are pleased to be working with three prestigious companies which presented innovative and high quality proposals.”

Private property company Frogmore was previously believed to be one of the leading bidders.

The shortlisted companies will now be presented with a detailed development brief and have until 6 January 2006 to submit their full proposals.

Each company will be asked to supply a large plan of their proposal, which will be displayed at the Palace for public viewing.

Alexandra Palace was built in 1873 as a recreation centre and visitor attraction. It was destroyed by fire two weeks later but was rebuilt within two years.

The London Borough of Haringey took over administration of the Palace in 1980, the same year a second fire damaged the site. Despite being partially derelict, the building and park remain visitor attractions and the location of a range of music and live events, trade and consumer exhibitions.

The site also includes an ice rink, a classic theatre and a fully licensed pub. Details: www.alexandrapalace.com