Building understands contractors are in pole position for massive west London development

Contractors Sir Robert McAlpine and Mace have been tipped as the front-runners to build the £8bn Earls Court redevelopment scheme.

Gary Yardley, investment director at the developer Capital & Counties, said it had engaged Sir Robert McAlpine and Mace to give it construction and programme management advice during the demolition and preparation for the 808-home Seagrove Road first phase of the development.

Insiders said it put the two in pole position to win the work when it comes to market.

Yardley said: “We’re very happy with what they’ve given us so far.”

He said procurement of contractors to build the first phase, due to start on site in spring 2013, would begin in the next three to six months.