London Olympics 2012

New Designs for Handball Arena

admin — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:58:00 GMT

Designs were unveiled today for a 'simple, efficient and flexible' London 2012 Handball Arena that will become a new multi-sports facility in legacy.

The new designs were included in the planning application for the venue which was submitted today.

The Handball Arena will be in the west of the Olympic Park, to the south of the Hockey Centre, within four minutes of the Olympic Village. It will have up to 7,000 seats during the Games, hosting the Handball preliminaries and quarter finals as well as the Modern Pentathlon disciplines of Fencing and Shooting. It will also be the Goalball venue during the Paralympic Games.

In legacy mode after the Games, the Arena will become a multi-sports venue with retractable seating for 6,000 spectators and flexible facilities to hold a range of training and competition events of all levels. It will cater for a wide-range of indoor sports including basketball, handball, badminton, netball and volleyball, boosting the sporting facilities provided across the Olympic Park.

The Handball Arena, designed by Make Architects with PTW and Arup, features external copper cladding to give it a distinctive appearance that will develop a rich natural colour as it ages. The concourse level features glazing which encircles the building, enabling visitors to the Olympic Park to view sport taking place inside, and illuminating the venue when lit at night. The venue also has a vibrant and multi-coloured interior, with retractable seating to create a flexible space and with 100 light pipes in the ceiling to allow natural light into the venue.

ODA Chairman John Armitt visited the Planning Decisions Team offices in Stratford this week to submit a planning application for the Handball Arena, which follows consultation with local residents.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'This is a simple, sustainable and flexible design that works well for the Games and legacy. The colourful interior will help boost the Games time experience for athletes and spectators, and in legacy will become a modern, practical and attractive facility for local people of all abilities to enjoy a range of sports. The copper-cladding sets the venue in the surrounding parklands and will look even more striking as it changes over time.'

Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London 2012 Organising Committee, said: 'This is another example of the Games acting as a catalyst for a state-of-the-art sporting facility which will be a high-quality venue at Games-time, whilst also providing a legacy for sport in London and the UK. The fact that Handball will have its own arena at Games-time will be a great boost to the sport in this country and it will be a multi-purpose arena after the Games.'

Jules Pipe, elected Mayor of Hackney, said: 'The new multi-sports venue is a major opportunity to develop a world class facility for Hackney residents which is accessible and suitable for a range of community sports as part of the legacy of the 2012 Games. Hackney already has high quality, award-winning sports facilities, and the Council is continuing to invest in these to offer all our residents access to healthier lifestyles through sport and physical activity. When London's Olympic and Paralympic Games have gone, the multi-sports Arena will remain as a venue for local people and visitors.'

Design features in the Handball Arena plans include:

Over 3,000 square metres of external copper cladding, mostly recycled, that changes colour and character as it ages
Over 700 square metres of glazing which encircles the building at concourse level opening up the venue to the Olympic Park and enabling visitors to watch sporting action
Striking multicoloured seating that retracts to enable flexible use of the field of play
100 light pipes in the ceiling that draw sunlight into the venue, reducing the demand for electric lights
Rainwater harvesting from the roof for toilet flushing, helping to reduce water use by 40 per cent
Range of materials selected for long-term durability and performance
In legacy mode the venue will include a health and fitness club with changing facilities and a café for use by the local community
In legacy mode, the venue offers a 2,743 square metre field of play hosting sports including: 5-a-side football; Netball; Basketball; Volleyball; Badminton; Table Tennis; Handball; and Futsal
The venue could also host in legacy: Hockey; Martial arts; Kabaddi; Dodgeball; Wheelchair Basketball; Fencing; Sitting Volleyball; Goalball; Wheelchair Rugby

Ricky Burdett, ODA Principal Design Advisor, said: 'The Handball Arena occupies an important urban lynchpin, acting as a bridge between the Olympic Park and the existing urban neighbourhoods to the west in Hackney and Tower Hamlets. The design is a bold and refined architectural statement: a rectilinear volume raised on a platform that addresses the street and a large podium overlooking the park. At night the internal activities will be visible through the horizontal glazed slot that defines the edge of the building.'

Vehicle Monitoring Contract Awarded

admin — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:54:00 GMT

The Delivery Management System Vehicle Tracking Module will be crucial in improving security for deliveries and reducing congestion in and around Stratford, Hackney and Leyton by tracking and regulating vehicles travelling to and within the Olympic Park. The new system will also collate information, and allow the ODA to forecast future demand.

ODA Director of Construction Howard Shiplee said: 'Reducing the impact upon the environment is very important to the ODA. We have a target of delivering 50 per cent of materials [by weight] to the Olympic Park by rail or water. However, where this is not possible, we are getting systems in place to reduce the impact of having vehicles on the roads.

'This new contract with Logica will provide us with the ability to manage road deliveries using Intelligent Transport Systems, and collate that information to forecast demand. This means that lorries should not be blocking the way for other road users because we are reducing the likelihood of waiting to get into the Olympic Park, and a smooth journey will mean less exhaust fumes.'

Garrick Fraser, Managing Director of Commercial, Transport and Financial Services from Logica UK said: 'The Olympic Delivery Authority project is essential to maintaining transport flow, enhancing accessibility by helping to reduce peak hour congestion and minimising disruption for local residents during the construction of the London 2012 Olympic Park.

'This reinforces our reputation as a leading provider of integrated transport solutions in the UK and our ability to deliver innovative solutions to meet customer needs. We are delighted to work in partnership with the Olympic Delivery Authority.'

Chocolate Giant supports London 2012

admin — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 08:21:00 GMT

Cadbury, britain's leading confectionary company, has become the latest Tier Two Supporter of the London 2012 Games.

As Official Confectionery and Ice Cream Supporter, Cadbury will have rights to use the London 2012 marks on products, as well as marketing rights to Team GB and ParalympicsGB. At Games-time, Cadbury will supply all confectionery and packaged ice cream sold at venues and within the Olympic Park.

Based in Bournville, Cadbury has strong experience supporting major sporting events. The company was an official supplier of the Sydney Games in 2000, as well as the Commonwealth Games in Manchester 2002 and Melbourne 2006.

They are the second Tier London Two Supporter, following the appointment of Deloitte as Professional Services Supporter last year.

London 2012 Chief Executive Paul Deighton said: 'Following the success of Team GB and ParalympicsGB this summer, we all came back from Beijing with a spring in our step and this has been replicated in the commercial sector - there has been a surge of interest in London 2012 and I’m thrilled that Cadbury - another great and trusted British brand - has come on board.

'They have a great track record supporting both major sporting events and community initiatives and we welcome them to the London 2012 family. This is another fantastic achievement for the commercial programme and with this deal we have now raised over £430m, which is well on our way to our domestic sponsorship target as part of the £2bn required to stage the Games in 2012.'

Todd Stitzer, CEO Cadbury plc, said: 'For nearly 200 years, Cadbury has been part of the fabric of British life so we are extremely proud to be a supporter of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. Since John Cadbury opened a chocolate shop in Birmingham in 1824, we have strived to be a company that is both performance driven and values led – a philosophy that is at one with the long held ethos of the Games: inspiration, optimism and community.'

Olympic and Paralympic heroes to parade in London

admin — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 08:23:00 GMT

The procession of Olympic and Paralympic Beijing heroes will parade through London today (16th October 2008) at 11am leaving from Mansion House and Heading for Trafalgar Square. The procession of 12 flat-bed trucks will be headed by triple gold medallist Chris Hoy.

Olympic Village Designs Released

admin — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:47:00 GMT

The latest legacy designs for the Olympic Village were released by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and Lend Lease today, together with new images showing the good progress being made on construction work on site.

Work began in June on the permanent foundations for the first blocks of the Olympic Village. More than 300 construction workers are now on site carrying out piling works - inserting concrete columns into the soil to reinforce the ground where the first blocks of the Olympic Village will sit. Piling works have been completed on the first block of the Olympic Village, with work underway on further blocks.

A selection of leading architects are now in place for all residential plots in the Olympic Village. The latest designs published today show the residential schemes as well as the courtyard areas, pedestrian walkways and new open spaces that will be created in the Olympic Village. Planning permission has recently been secured for the first three residential schemes, with favourable comments received about the high level of architectural quality.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said:

'These new images show the good progress being made in design and construction work on the Olympic Village to help maintain the momentum of this huge project.

'The Olympic Village will be one of the strongest legacies from the Games, delivering quality new homes for Londoners, many of which will be affordable, together with new parks, public squares and community facilities. This will be a world-class development and the involvement of some of Europe’s most talented architects and landscape designers will ensure design excellence continues to play an essential role in the delivery of this project.

'Discussions on the funding of the Village are continuing and though the economic environment is challenging we expect to conclude these around the turn of the year.'

Lend Lease Europe Chief Executive Dan Labbad said:

'These new images demonstrate the progressive and diverse architecture and design integrity that we have been striving for in developing the Village, both as a home for athletes in 2012 and as an iconic sustainable community beyond. The importance of this project is also reflected in the rapid and exciting progress onsite.'

Lend Lease’s contractors have also now completed work to lift into place the first new bridge in the Olympic Village site, marking the first stage in helping to create an open and accessible area in Games-time and legacy. The 44 metre long bridge was lifted in using a 1,000 tonne crane and is the first of three new bridges to be built in total. The bridges will each span the High Meads Loop railway line to connect the new Olympic Village development with the existing housing and communities adjacent to Village site. The bridges will also carry vital services and utilities to the Olympic Village development.

The Olympic Village will accommodate athletes during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. After 2012, it will leave the legacy of new homes, many of which will be affordable, together with new parks, public squares and open space; an Academy education campus for all ages; multi-use community facilities; and new infrastructure to connect the new communities with the Olympic Park, one of the largest new urban parks in Europe for 150 years.

Local people picking up Olympic Jobs

admin — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:03:00 GMT

The ODA published new figures showing that local and previously unemployed people are continuing to access jobs on the Olympic Park as construction work advances on the foundations of London 2012 venues.

Activity is increasing steadily on the Olympic Park and in July the ODA set out the ‘big build: foundations’ milestones it aims to reach by next summer. These include completing the Olympic Stadium and Aquatics Centre foundations.

The latest figures show that of the 2,701 strong workforce currently delivering the progress on the Olympic Park:

Nearly a quarter are local residents (24 per cent)
Over half are from London (58 per cent)
Just under one in ten (9 per cent) was previously unemployed before finding work helping deliver the Games and a fifth (20 per cent) of these workers live locally

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'We are on track to complete the ‘big build: foundations’ by next summer and are also making encouraging progress to deliver a real employment and skills legacy for east London. We are working closely with our contractors and partner organisations to help ensure that alongside a physical legacy of world class sporting venues, new infrastructure and a new park the Games can also help local people build new career paths long into the future.'

Up to 9,000 construction workers will be needed at the peak of construction on the Olympic Park in 2009/2010. The ODA has published the ‘London 2012 jobs, skills, futures’ strategy which sets out how it is working with a range of public and private sector partners to help Olympic Park contractors recruit workers whilst at the same time helping people develop sustainable skills and a long term career path after the Games.

Tessa Jowell, Olympics Minister, said: 'One of the most important legacies for the five Host Boroughs will be new jobs and local people with the skills to take these jobs.

'These figures are further proof of how staging the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 is proving to be a catalyst, transforming lives for the better in one of the most deprived parts of the country, let alone just our capital city. This demonstrates that, once again, we are doing what we promised - delivering on our commitments to local people and to providing a lasting legacy in east London.'

Geoff Newton, Director of Olympic Opportunities at the London Development Agency, said: The 2012 Games are already leaving a lasting skills and employment legacy. We want to give Londoners the best opportunity to benefit from Olympic jobs and together with our partners we have already provided 3,000 training places across London.

'Over the next three and a half years the LDA is supporting plans for three construction training centres in east London, offering specialist training in trades such as scaffolding and dry lining, many of which have been identified as of need by Olympic Park contractors. It is by working with our partners in the ODA and across London that we will ensure that training programmes meet future skill demands of the industry, whether for the Olympics or for other projects such as Crossrail.'

The ODA ‘jobs, skills, futures’ strategy includes:

A new jobs brokerage service, in partnership with Jobcentre Plus and the five Host Boroughs, that matches candidates living locally and elsewhere in the UK with Olympic Park job opportunities. Over 200 people have been placed into jobs through the brokerage since May 2008.

A National Skills Academy for Construction, funded by ConstructionSkills, the Learning and Skills Council and the London Development Agency. This coordinates training across a range of providers for people to get the skills needed to win work on the Olympic Park and continue their career development once in work.

As part of this Academy a Plant Training Centre on the Olympic Park site providing local people with practical training tailored to the needs of contractors. Just under 250 people have graduated from the Plant Training Centre since its launch in February 2008.

A target of 2,000 trainees, Apprenticeships and work placements working on the Olympic Park and other London 2012 venues, including a programme aimed at specifically at placing women into construction jobs. There are currently just under 200 Apprentices and trainees working on the Olympic Park.

Vancouver Winter Olympics 2010 Tickets On Sale Now

admin — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:20:00 GMT

Tickets for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games have gone on sale in Host Country Canada and around the world.

The Olympic Games take place in Vancouver and Whistler from 12-28 February 2010. Tickets are on sale for the 16 Olympic sports, including Figure Skating, Cross-Country Skiing and Snowboard. They are available through National Olympic Committees and official ticket agents in each country.

John Furlong, VANOC Chief Executive Officer, said: 'Visiting Canada and attending the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games promises to be the experience of a lifetime that people will remember for generations.

'Canadians can’t wait to welcome the world with glowing hearts and invite everyone to join us in what is sure to be a spectacular celebration of culture, winter sport and incredible athletic achievement.'

The Paralympic Winter Games take place from 12 – 21 March 2010. Tickets go on sale in May 2009.

From the vibrant Host City of Vancouver, to the venue cities of Richmond, and to the natural beauty of Whistler Host Mountain Resort, the Vancouver 2010 venues will stage extraordinary Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. And from athlete housing to media centres, there are many sites critical to the Games that are equally integral to the Games but will never host a sporting event.

Spectator Information

Parkcams give best view

admin — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 08:38:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has launched six new “ParkCams” – cameras that give the public a front row seat of the work on the Olympic Park as the venues and infrastructure needed for the 2012 Games and legacy take shape.

The cameras will show updated still images throughout the day and will be accessible via the London 2012 website - Parkcams

The new ParkCams are situated in and around the Olympic Park and provide views of:

The Olympic Park looking from south to north;
The Aquatics Centre site, where construction began two months ahead of schedule in July;
The Energy Centre with the retained Kings Yard building in the background, where construction started on schedule in August. It is being built to provide the extra energy required for Games and in legacy;
Olympic Stadium close-up of the south stand, where construction began three months ahead of schedule in May. The structure of the west stand of the venue is now clearly visible;
Olympic Stadium wide angle with Stratford City in the background; and
The Olympic Village, where construction started in the summer.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'The Olympic Park changes every day due to the scale of regeneration taking place across the site. These new ParkCams will give the public a front-row seat, making sure they don’t miss any developments as the work to build the venues and infrastructure needed for the Games and legacy accelerates.

'We hope to expand the number and type of camera on the Park as construction begins on other venues.'

Strong progress on London 2012 infrastructure

admin — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 10:36:00 GMT

Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) Chief Executive David Higgins today said that the progress being made to build new infrastructure and utilities in the Olympic Park is creating the backbone for the long-term regeneration of east London.

Speaking at ‘The Games Briefing’ event in London this morning, a gathering of representatives in the construction sector, David Higgins said: 'While the flagship new sports venues we are building understandably get the most attention, the huge amount of work currently going on to construct new infrastructure and utilities in the Olympic Park is every bit as essential in ensuring we deliver a lasting legacy from the London 2012 Games.

'We are making strong progress in creating the building blocks for a world-class new urban Park. We are building 20km of new roads and more than 30 new bridges to connect the Olympic Park during the Games and create new links between communities in legacy.

'Work is also underway on a state-of-the-art Energy Centre which, using sustainable technology, will provide power for the Games and support new and existing communities for generations to come. The wider utilities network we are building, including an electrical substation and sewage infrastructure, completes the ‘wiring’ of the park and will leave a backbone of facilities essential for a lasting legacy.'

The infrastructure and utilities work being delivered by the ODA includes:

More than 30 new bridges and 20km of new roads;
New water, gas, electrical and telecoms networks;
A wind turbine in the north of the Olympic Park to play a key role in delivering renewable energy to the site;
A new electrical substation and electrical distribution network to supply electricity to the Olympic Park;
An Energy Centre and community energy networks to provide efficient power, heating and cooling systems across the site; and
A new pumping station and sewer network to collect, convey and discharge foul waste from venues and buildings in the Olympic Park.

Construction work on utilities and infrastructure in the Olympic Park is well underway - the outer structure of the electrical substation is taking shape; piling works have started on the foundations of the Energy Centre; tunnelling work has started on the new sewer networks and on the foundations of the pumping station; and the abutments in place for the first permanent new bridges to be built in the Olympic Park.

Cycle Safety Initiative in London

admin — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 12:22:00 GMT

ODA launches new cycle safety initiative in London

ODA Chairman John Armitt and cycle safety campaigner Cynthia Barlow will be helping distribute Fresnel lenses to lorry drivers, which are a simple and effective measure that can be used to increase safety for cyclists.

By putting a Fresnel lens on the passenger window, lorry drivers can see cyclists and vehicles on the passenger side of the lorry, where before they would have had a “blind spot”. The ODA will distribute 1,600 Fresnel lenses in the first stage of the campaign.

The ODA has also established a forum with VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) Metropolitan Police and the construction industry to examine a range of initiatives to ensure the safe operation of vehicles on the road network leading to the Olympic Park.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'Fresnel lenses are an effective way of increasing the view of the road, and may help reduce the numbers of injuries and deaths of cyclists in London.

'We are committed to working in partnership with our contractors to ensure the highest standards of health and safety on the Olympic Park. In addition to this campaign, we are also aiming to transport 50 per cent of the construction materials needed on site by rail and water, which means that we will be taking thousands of unnecessary lorry journeys off London’s roads.'

Cynthia Barlow, campaigner for RoadPeace, said: 'Every year about 20 cyclists are killed on London’s roads and often it is the construction industry vehicles – concrete mixers, tipper lorries and skip lorries – making left turns that are involved.

'It is vitally important that the owners and drivers of these vehicles take action to deal with the potential danger of their vehicles to vulnerable road users by ensuring they have a good view all around their vehicle, firstly with fresnel lenses, and other possible measures such as proximity sensors, mirrors, and cameras.'

Peter McBride, Head of Cycling, Walking and Accessibility at Transport for London (TfL) said: 'Although the number of cyclists killed on London’s roads has fallen in recent years, the fact remains that more than half of all cycle deaths in the Capital involve a goods vehicle. By working directly with haulage companies to address this serious road safety issue, the ODA and TfL are taking practical steps, such as the distribution of Fresnel lenses, to help make cyclists safer and more visible on the Capital’s roads.'

Charlie Lloyd from London Cycling Campaign said: 'Large lorries are a major threat to the safety of cyclists in London and it is essential that everything possible is done to make lorry drivers aware of the risks their vehicles pose to pedestrians and cyclists.

'We welcome the action of the ODA to provide some Fresnel lenses to lorry drivers. Not only will the lenses make it easier to see cyclists near the lorry but they will also have a constant reminder to take extra care when driving in urban areas.'

John Fitch, Research and Development Manager said: 'From the research carried out by VOSA, the use of the Fresnel Lens has proved to help reduce the driver’s blind spots in HGVs and in doing so reduce incidents.

'VOSA and the Highways Agency are issuing lenses throughout England in a campaign to reduce blind spot incidents and congestion. It is important that large construction projects like London 2012 are leading the way in the industry with this campaign.'

The ODA have also installed cycle improvement measures around the primary access junction on the A12 in consultation with TfL and the London Borough of Hackney, with more improvements being installed next month.

Canoe and Kayak venue approved for London 2012

admin — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 08:26:00 GMT

The White water Canoe Centre has been given planning permission from Broxbourne Borough Council

The plans will now be referred to the Government Office for the East of England to grant planning permission.

The White Water Canoe Centre will be built by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire to host the Canoe / Kayak slalom events during the Olympic Games in 2012. After the Games, the venue will be developed to become a sporting and leisure facility for canoeing and white-water rafting, as well as a major competition venue for elite events. The Centre will be owned and managed by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, and will sit alongside the existing centres of sporting excellence in the Lee Valley Regional Park.

A planning application for the White Water Canoe Centre was submitted in the summer following public consultation with local residents on the venue plans. Broxbourne Borough Council last night granted planning approval allowing the plans to go to the Government Office for the East of England to grant planning permission. The venue plans include:

An international standard Canoe / Kayak Slalom Course – an Games standard 300m course, with a warm-up course and finish lake. A new artificial water body will be constructed and the white-water will be created through a system of pumps
New parklands - the canoe course will be located within a wider parkland setting. The landscaping works will include path and bridge networks throughout the venue to facilitate spectator access and viewing
A new facility building – containing a reception, café, changing rooms, shop, offices, spectator viewing facilities, equipment storage and water pump/filtration facilities

David Higgins, ODA Chief Executive said: 'Securing planning approval is a significant milestone and keeps us firmly on-track to deliver the new world-class facilities at Broxbourne in good time for the Games. Our plans for Broxbourne are a key part of spreading the benefits of the Games around the country and will help us create a major leisure attraction for Broxbourne and the East of England region for many years to come.'

London 2012 Organising Committee Chairman Sebastian Coe said: 'Broxbourne will provide a world class venue for Games time and an excellent facility for elite athlete and community usage after the Games, living up to our promise of leaving a lasting legacy for sport. Securing planning approval is an important step forwards and we look forward to seeing this exciting venue taking shape.'

Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said: 'The WWCC will be a world class sports venue providing the best training and competition facilities for elite athletes plus a fun and exciting recreational centre for the whole community. The centre will form part of a ‘zone of sporting excellence’ in the Lee Valley stretching from Herts to the Thames. The Authority looks forward to receiving the WWCC in 2010/11 and providing some pre-Games public use before delivering a vibrant and sustainable legacy venue for the long term.'

Richard Ellis, East of England Development Agency (EEDA) chair, said: 'The East of England Development Agency (EEDA) has worked closely with the Olympic Delivery Authority, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and Sport England East to ensure that the plans for this site go beyond the requirements of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. EEDA’s aim is to secure a lasting legacy from the Broxbourne site, the benefits of which will be a major boost for local communities and businesses in the region for years to come.'

Jennie Price, Chief Executive of Sport England, said: 'Broxbourne will give people the chance to experience the excitement of canoeing and white-water rafting and develop their skills in a world class setting. The White Water Canoe Centre is one of several important Sport England investments that will help secure a lasting sporting legacy for the community.'

Paul Owen, British Canoe Union (BCU) Chief Executive, said: 'The new course will help to grow the already very popular sport of canoe and kayaking by providing a first class venue for world class athletes, the Games themselves as well as the 2012 legacy. It will also promote Broxbourne and the Hertfordshire region as a world-class host venue and destination.'

The Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre will be built on what is currently the overflow car park for the Showground site of the River Lee Country Park, between Waltham Cross and Theobalds Grove stations.

The contract for construction companies to build the new venue and facilities is currently out to tender and is expected to be awarded in early 2009, with works starting in Spring 2009.

The venue is due to be completed for Games training and testing in 2010-11. During the Games, temporary seating will be installed around the venue for 12,000 spectators. After the Games, the spectator seating will be removed, and the venue will be developed into the Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre, creating a major leisure attraction for canoeing and white water rafting as well as a venue for future international competition.

Pedestrian bridge to be built on old Railway land

admin — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 07:57:00 GMT

A railway depot at the heart of the Olympic Park has been completely cleared to make way for the construction of a new pedestrian land-bridge between the Aquatics Centre and the Olympic Stadium.

The huge bridge will be the biggest in the Olympic Park and will be the main gateway for spectators getting to events in 2012.

Thornton’s Field, a railway depot, also needed to be dismantled to allow access for construction vehicles to get to the stadium island while the Olympic Stadium is being built.

The ODA released new photos and film of Thornton’s Field showing the site before dismantling began, and afterwards. Both photos show the strategic importance of clearing the site with the Stadium in the background. Before dismantling could begin at Thornton’s Field, an entirely new railway depot to house trains needed to be built. Orient Way sidings was completed on time and on budget and officially opened in July. The time lapse videos are of the last trains leaving Thornton’s Field and the construction of Orient Way, including the arrival of the first trains.

Transport Minister Tom Harris said: 'We want to deliver a world class transport system for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in four years time. It is very encouraging that the first piece of the infrastructure has been brought in ahead of time and on budget. This is the beginning of a programme of work that will leave a long-term economic and transport legacy for London and the Thames Gateway.'

ODA Director of Transport, Hugh Sumner, said: 'Thornton’s Field has been replaced by an excellent new depot at Orient Way for trains leaving London after the morning rush hour. Orient Way was completed five weeks early and on budget, which allowed the dismantling of Thornton’s Field to begin early.

'Train drivers and other staff have now also got a new accommodation block at Orient Way which means they have now completely moved in, and staff can begin to enjoy their new surroundings.'

This project was completed using sustainable methods with ninety-nine per cent of the demolition and site clearance waste from the Orient Way project being recycled, including:

4,000 tonne of crushed concrete, of which 1,000 tonnes was reused on site, 3,000 tonnes was reused off site;
620 tonnes of tarmac;
180 tonnes of steel;
20,000 tonnes of previous site ballast was screened and reused;
Track was 100 per cent reused.
In addition, 3,250 yards of track was lifted and reused.

Olympic Park most accessible

admin — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:42:00 GMT

The ODA has published its Inclusive Design Strategy which sets out the framework for how the Olympic Park will be designed and constructed to be inclusive for people of all cultures, faiths and ages, and accessible to disabled people.

Inclusive design principles have been embedded into the ODA’s procurement, design and construction processes. Practical examples of how the Park will become the most accessible and inclusive in London include:

wider pathways with smooth surfaces and seating and resting places at regular intervals
setting a new UK benchmark for wheelchair spaces and amenity seating
gentle gradients giving all users greater freedom of movement
clear and easily understood signage
excellent provision of baby changing facilities and buggy stores
a range of accessible toilet facilities
washing facilities to accompany faith rooms

The same exemplary accessibility standards will be applied across the three modes - Olympic Games, Paralympic Games and through into legacy – to ensure that everyone finds the Park welcoming and easy to use.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'When the eyes of the world turn to London in 2012, we want everyone to feel part of this unique opportunity to showcase the UK.

'The Olympic Park will be at the heart of the celebrations and people of all cultures, faiths and ages and disabled people will find London 2012's Olympic Park welcoming and easy to use.

'Inclusive and accessible design principles have been at the heart of our planning from the start. A site-wide approach across all buildings, open spaces, parklands, infrastructure and public transport means that we will be able to go further than any previous Olympic and Paralympic Games.

'After the Games, the most accessible and inclusive public park and sporting venues in London will be left for the local communities to use for generations after.'

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: 'On my recent visits to Beijing, I saw first hand what worked well and the lessons we can learn for London 2012. It is clear that accessibility must continue to be at the core of our work both for the Games and so that future generations of disabled athletes and spectators can enjoy sport in accessible facilities in the Olympic Park.

'I welcome the ODA's commitment to inclusive design and whilst I'm determined to provide taxpayer value from the 2012 budget, that commitment will not be compromised and remains a top priority for me as we prepare London to host the 2012 Games.'

Vice Chairman of LOCOG’s Sports Advisory Group and one of the UK's leading Paralympic champions, Dame Tanni Grey-Thomson said: 'Having been a competitor, spectator and commentator at several Olympic and Paralympic Games, I know how important it is that the Park and venues are accessible and easy to use.

'London 2012 is aiming to go further than any previous Host City to ensure that both the Olympic and Paralympic Games are accessible for everyone. After the Games, world-class sporting venues and the largest and most inclusive park in London will be left to help inspire a new generation of Olympic and Paralympic athletes.'

The ODA has consulted with diverse groups within the local community and the strategy has been influenced by the experiences of multi-faith groups, parents, disabled people and Paralympians.

Parkland Contractor Appointed

admin — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:39:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) today announced the appointment of a contractor to manage the delivery of the northern section of parklands in the London 2012 Olympic Park, which will be one of the largest new urban parks of its kind in Europe for 150 years.

Following a competitive procurement Edmund Nuttall has been appointed landscape and public realm contractor for the north of the Park on track to start work on site in spring 2009. The contractor will procure and manage a number of specialist subcontractors and suppliers through a series of packages, the first of which will be for the trees and plants required for the whole Park, which will be issued later this year.

LDA Design • Hargreaves Associates has been appointed by the ODA to design the Olympic Park parklands for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Public consultation on the latest plans is currently underway ahead of a planning application being submitted next month.

ODA Head of Parklands and Public Realm John Hopkins said: 'This is another important step towards the creation of the parklands that will both enhance the experience of the Games for spectators, athletes and TV viewers and leave a fantastic new green space in legacy. The project is on track and we will be working with our contractor to quickly roll-out the process of buying the tree and plant packages for the whole of the Park.'

The landscape and public realm contractor will be responsible for managing the transformation of 40 hectares of former industrial land and landfill currently being cleared and cleaned, into new open spaces, parklands and waterways fit for the Games and legacy.

This will include hard and soft landscape works including tree planting and the construction of the concourse which will link all the venues, entrances and parklands. The contract will also include creating new wetland and other wildlife habitats, installing new allotments and permanent park furniture, lighting, irrigation and drainage.

A contract for the landscaping of the south of the park will be issued later in 2009

Record Numbers at Olympic Park opening

admin — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 07:57:00 GMT

The buzz following the performance of Team GB and ParalympicGB at the Beijing 2008 Games brought record numbers to the London 2012 Olympic Park as it opened to the public for London Open House weekend for the second year running.

Around 3,000 people joined bus tours around the Olympic Park, 50 per cent more than last year’s event, to see the site clearance almost complete and construction work underway on the Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Centre, Athletes Village and bridges, roads, utilities and other infrastructure across the Park.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'Visitors to the site during last year’s open house were able to see the work underway to clean and clear the Olympic Park, much of it contaminated through decades of industrial use. This weekend thousands of people saw first hand that while Team GB and ParalympicGB were shining in Beijing work has been continuing at pace on the construction of the venues and infrastructure for the London 2012 Games and its legacy. The weekend was a great opportunity to build on the excitement around hosting the Games in London in four year’s time.'

Open House also offered visitors an opportunity to meet Olympic athletes, take part in the Get Set London roadshow and find out how they can be part of London 2012. Get Set London has been travelling around London since January 2008 giving people from all over the capital the chance to try out new sports, test their own fitness and learn more about the business, skills, cultural and sports opportunities available in the run up to the Games.

The event was also an opportunity to gain feedback on the project from the public both during the exhibition and on the bus tours. Comments received included:

'I came on the tour last year and it is very interesting to see how much has changed over the last 12 months.'

'The construction team must be working very hard, well done to them all'

'I feel I experienced and saw much more than I had hoped for. I am amazed by how much work has already been done.'

'Really made the prospect of the Games exciting.'

'Fascinating insight into the whole project and the work involved in creating an Olympic Park.'

'Very impressed – such a vast scale. Very excited to be living in the area.'

'Can’t wait for next year.'

Progress on Olympic Stadium

admin — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 08:48:00 GMT

The Olympic Stadium has moved into the next sequence of construction as the supports are installed for the seating terraces and the concrete slab is poured to create the podium level.

The first pre-cast concrete rakers, which support the terracing units in the lower bowl, have been lifted into place in the west and south stands. The lower bowl holds the 25,000 permanent seats within the Stadium. Over 200 concrete raker units will be placed, all of which will be pre-cast in an area specifically set-up on the south part of the Olympic Stadium site.

The first 12 of 12,000 pre-cast concrete terracing units on which the spectator seats will later be fixed, are being delivered to site next week from factories in Tallington, Lincolnshire and Henlade, Somerset. The units can weigh up to 10 tonnes in weight and contain 20 per cent recycled concrete.

Over 145 columns, each around five metres in height, have been constructed and 1,300 m3 of concrete has been poured to create the podium slab which will serve as the Stadium’s concourse.
Towards the end of this year, the podium slab around the west and south stands will join up with the ground level on the north and east stands, creating a concourse around the entire Stadium where spectators will circulate.

The ODA’s Olympic Stadium project sponsor, Ian Crockford said: “The Olympic Stadium has been designed to be different with the legacy ambitions driving how we construct the venue. 'To create a Stadium with such a temporary element will be a design and engineering first. The team is rising to the challenge and work is progressing on the ground at an impressive rate.

'Work has begun to the west stand lift shafts, one of which is very nearly complete at second floor level.'

Piling work is complete to the abutments which supports the first of the five pedestrian footbridges over waterways that surround the Stadium site. During the Games this bridge will be one of the main connections for spectators to and from the Stadium to the rest of the Olympic Park.

Olympic and Paralympic flags raised by Champions

admin — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 08:45:00 GMT

The Olympic and Paralympic Flags will be raised at a special ceremony on 26 September at City Hall to mark London becoming the next Host City of the Summer Games.

Beijing gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu will raise the Olympic Flag and Chris Holmes MBE, Britain's most successful Paralympic swimmer, will raise the Paralympic Flag. The Mayor of London Boris Johnson will raise the Union flag.

Chair of the London 2012 Organising Committee Sebastian Coe and Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell will join 1948 Olympians, Beijing 2008 medal winners and London 2012 hopefuls at the event. Representatives of the British Olympic Association, British Paralympic Association, UK Sport will also be present, alongside community leaders and local schoolchildren.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: 'Raising the flags together at City Hall marks a historic moment for London, following the return of all our athletes who performed so brilliantly at the Beijing Games. The flags signal our dedication and commitment to ensuring that the London Games in 2012 will be a sporting feast open to everyone.'

Education Programme launched - Get Set

admin — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 08:17:00 GMT

The London 2012 'Get Set' education programme launched today featuring a new interactive website.

The programme encourages children and young people across the UK to learn about the Games and explore the Paralympic Values of inspiration, determination and equality, as well as the Olympic Values of respect, excellence and friendship.

Highlights include free, flexible resources targeted at specific age groups between 3-19 years old. They include inspirational videos, interactive games, fact sheets and news articles.

Schools and colleges can also join the Get Set network, receiving rewards, recognition and endorsement for work around the Values.

The programme fits alongside the school curriculum

New Olympic Park architecture unveiled

admin — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:26:00 GMT

New concept designs for a key piece of utilities infrastructure in the Olympic Park have been unveiled by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) along with new photos showing the progress being made in constructing the new utilities networks.

Concept designs have been unveiled for a pumping station to be built in the south of the Olympic Park that will collect, convey and discharge foul waste from the main venues and buildings in the Olympic Park in Games-time, and from the legacy venues and residential developments after 2012. The pumping station is being built by Barhale Construction and a planning application has now been submitted which includes early design images by John Lyall Architects.

The designs for the pumping station show a circular building to reflect the engineering used in the sewer shafts beneath the ground. The circular shaft structure will rise out of the ground to form the outer shell of the pumping station building with images applied to the exterior of the building to depict the history of the London sewer network and its Victorian origins. There are also plans to include a green roof on the pumping station building to help enhance the ecological value and biodiversity of the Olympic Park site by attracting local wildlife.

New photos have also been released showing construction work on the pumping station where work is well underway to construct the foundations for the building and build a 12.5m wide shaft beneath the ground. The shaft will connect the pumping station to 1.8km of foul sewer tunnels which have now started to be constructed throughout the Olympic Park.

ODA Director of Infrastructure and Utilities Simon Wright, said: 'Design excellence runs through the heart of the project, and the early designs in place for the pumping station show that we can use innovative architecture in functional buildings in the Olympic Park, not just the world-class sporting venues we are building.

'With work on the foundations of the pumping station well underway and tunnelling work now starting on the sewer networks, we are firmly on track to deliver a backbone of new utilities infrastructure for the Olympic Park.'

The pumping station and foul sewer networks will be operational by the end of 2009.

Historic homecoming of Paralympic Games begins

admin — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:48:00 GMT

The Handover of the Paralympic Games from Beijing to London took place today in the Bird’s Nest Stadium.

The eight-minute segment in followed the transfer of the Paralympic Flag to the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson. It continued the themes from the Olympic Handover segment, with the reappearance of the red London bus, young performers, innovative dance sequences, specially-composed music and iconic landmarks.

As the bus left the stadium it was transformed to carry the London 2012 Paralympic logo, accompanied by Ade Adepitan and ParalympicsGB medal winners David Weir, Shelly Woods, Eleanor Simmonds, David Roberts and the gold medal-winning Boccia team – Nigel Murray, Dan Bentley, Zoe Robinson and David Smith.

In 1948 Dr Ludwig Guttmann organised a sports competition for World War II soldiers with spinal cord injuries at Stoke Mandeville, at the same time as the Opening Ceremony of the London 1948 Olympic Games.

Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London 2012 Organising Committee, said: ‘The Beijing Paralympic Games Closing Ceremony was spectacular and we are proud to have taken part in it and to present a snapshot of London and the UK to the world.

'Our segment was a statement of intent that our Games will be inspiring and fun, and get the whole world involved. We are proud to be the next summer Paralympic Host City.

'I congratulate Beijing for being superb hosts for both Games, to the Chinese team for topping the Paralympic medals table, and to ParalympicsGB for a stunning performance in coming second.’

Weymouth & Portland plans on course as construction work sails towards finishing line

admin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:11:00 GMT

Construction work to enhance the sailing facilities at Weymouth & Portland for 2012 is racing towards the finishing line, the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) announced today.

The Olympic and Paralympic sailing events in 2012 will be hosted at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) which offers world-class facilities and some of the best small boat sailing conditions in the world. The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and its contractors Dean & Dyball began construction work in March to enhance the existing sailing facilities with the construction of a new permanent 250m slipway and new race-boat parking, lifting and mooring facilities.

Construction work is now well over the halfway stage with 70,000 tonnes of Portland stone put in place to reclaim 18,000m2 of land in front of the sailing academy to form the new slipway. Work has also been completed on a 200m breakwater to protect the enhanced facilities, and work is well underway on a new pier offering two yacht lifting cranes, and a new pontoon to provide 70 berths for race-boats.

The progress means the project is expected to be completed in November, keeping Weymouth & Portland on track to be the first venue ready for the 2012 Games, delivering an early legacy of world-class facilities for elite athletes and the local community to use.

Olympic Delivery Authority Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'Weymouth & Portland was the first venue for 2012 to start construction work so reaching the final stages of the project is another important milestone. The huge progress we’re making at Weymouth & Portland means we’re on course to finish work ahead of schedule, helping us deliver an early legacy of world-class facilities for elite athletes and the local community to use well ahead of 2012.'

Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London 2012 Organising Committee said: 'The success of our sailors was one of the highlights of a fantastic Beijing Games for Team GB so I’m delighted that we’re on track to deliver enhanced sailing facilities at Weymouth & Portland for our sailors to train well ahead of 2012. Our plans are driven by legacy and these enhanced facilities will also provide new opportunities and facilities for people from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities to experience the thrill of sailing for many years to come.'

The construction work carried out so far at Weymouth & Portland has been delivered with an impressive safety record, with no reportable accidents on site, mirroring work on the Olympic Park construction site in east London where the ODA this month achieved another million hours without a reportable accident.

Together with the ODA’s enhancement works at Weymouth & Portland, Dean & Reddyhoff, developers for the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA), are also well underway on work on a new 560-berth commercial marina at Osprey Quay of which 250 berths will be used during the 2012 Games. The marina will include retail and industrial development bringing enormous social and economic regeneration to the local area.

London 2012 Pre-Games Training Camp Guide launched

admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:04:00 GMT

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) hosted a reception at the British Ambassador's residence in Beijing today to launch the London 2012 Pre-Games Training Camp Guide for the Paralympic Games.

The event was hosted by Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London 2012 Organising Committee, Paralympics GB chairman Mike Brace, Olympics Minister Rt Hon Tessa Jowell MP and Sandie Dawe, Director of Strategy and Communications at VisitBritain, and was attended by representatives from National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) from all over the world.

The Pre-Games Training Camp Guide contains 175 sporting venues and facilities throughout the UK which meet the standards required to host Paralympic teams and athletes in the run up to the London Games in 2012. Published online, the Guide outlines different venues from all over the country which are suitable training bases for each of the 20 Paralympic sports in 2012 as teams prepare for the Games. Developed by the London 2012 Organising Committee and VisitBritain, the website showcases the quality and variety of sport facilities in the UK capable of hosting elite Paralympic athletes. National Paralympic Committees choosing to base their athletes at one of these training camps are eligible to receive a financial award of up to £25,000 from LOCOG to assist with costs relating to Pre Games Training Camps.

London 2012 Chairman Sebastian Coe said: 'We said that we wanted the London Games to be for athletes, and the facilities listed in this Guide will really help overseas athletes prepare well. It also provides a great opportunity for towns throughout the UK to get involved in our plans.

'The process we have been through shows a great spread of high quality accessible facilities throughout the UK that can be used by elite level athletes. The new website will continue to be an asset to keep an up-to-date log of the elite facilities we have across the UK.'

Tessa Jowell, Olympics Minister, said: 'The whole of the UK has the chance to be involved in 2012, and for the nations and regions there is no better opportunity than through bidding to host the Olympic and Paralympic Training Camps. Olympic and Paralympic teams from around the world can have the opportunity to train and prepare in world class facilities all round the UK.'

Phil Lane, Chef de Mission of Paralympics GB, said: 'Paralympics GB is delighted to have worked in cooperation with VisitBritain and LOCOG to host our fellow NPCs at tonight's event - to mark the launch of the Pre Games Training Camp Guide. Pre Games Training Camps are a critical factor in the success of Paralympics GB and the facilities available throughout the UK will greatly assist our fellow NPCs as they prepare for the London Games.'

Sandie Dawe, Director of Strategy and Communications at Visit Britain, says: 'Britain is one of the world's top sports destinations, with world-renowned events and venues in every nation and region of the UK. We are also a very inclusive and accessible destination, which prides itself on catering for every type of visitor. The Paralympic teams and their supporters who come here to train and compete in 2012 can be assured of a world class welcome.'

The event was also attended by representatives from Wales and seven of the English regions of the UK - East of England, East Midlands, North East, North West, South East, West Midlands, and London.

Local children join London 2012 ‘Construction Crew’ programme

admin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 16:46:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has launched its ‘Construction Crew’ programme, enabling local school children to experience the work going into delivering the venues and infrastructure for the London 2012 Games.

Twenty year-six students from eight schools across the Host Boroughs – Hackney, Newham, Waltham Forest, Tower Hamlets and Greenwich – have been individually nominated by the schools to take part in the programme. They will visit the Olympic Park and see the progress being made first-hand, and take part in workshops to promote leadership, responsibility and presentation skills.

Through these visits and workshops the students will develop a better understanding of the London 2012 project which is creating the largest new urban park in Europe for 150 years. They will be encouraged to take these new skills and knowledge back to their schools and present the information to their peers.

The Crew have completed a two-day introductory workshop which included a talk from ODA Chief Executive, David Higgins, and a trip around the Olympic Park. Further sessions will initially run until March 2009, during this time the ODA will work closely with the Crew, and a member of staff from each of the participating schools.

ODA Chief Executive, David Higgins said: 'The Construction Crew is a great way for young people to get involved with the construction phase of the project. They will be able to see the world-class venues that we are building for the London 2012 Games and that will be available for them to use in legacy.

'We will be encouraging and supporting the Crew to communicate their experiences from the programme to the rest of their school, family and friends.'

Notes to editors:

1. The eight schools involved in the programme are:

Jubilee Primary School, London Borough of Hackney
Roman Road Primary School, London Borough of Newham
Marner Primary School, London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Willow Brook Primary School, London Borough of Waltham Forest
Jenny Hammond Primary School, London Borough of Waltham Forest
Cardwell Primary School, London Borough of Greenwich
Middle Park Primary School, London Borough of Greenwich

2. Representatives from the ODA will present to the group on three core themes that run through the construction of the Park, they are:

environment and sustainability
history and archaeology
employment and skills

3. Images from the first Construction Crew workshop are available from the ODA press office.

Sam Hynd smashes own world record

admin — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:03:00 GMT

ParalympicsGB’s Sam Hynd today broke his own swimming world record in his Paralympic Games debut.

The 17-year-old Nottingham student knocked five seconds off his own world record in the Men’s 400m Freestyle (S8) Heat, touching in at 4:26:46.

‘I kept my stroke rate high throughout the race and tonight I will go out hard and come back even harder,’ said Hynd.

A total of 10 British swimmers have made it through to the final.

‘I know I have a lot left for tonight. That was a well placed race. I was aiming for 2:28 to 2:26, so to get 2:26 is just great,’ Hynd added.

Hynd is aiming to add to the bronze medal he won in the Men’s 200m Individual Medley (SM8).

Building work progressing on London 2012 Aquatics Centre foundations

admin — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:39:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) today published new images showing work is progressing well on the foundations of the Aquatics Centre for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Work is under way creating the foundations for the platforms that will support the sweeping wave-like roof of the Aquatics Centre, with over 100 concrete piles already drilled up to 25m into the ground. Nearly 3000 tonnes of soil per day is currently being excavated from the areas of the two 50m swimming pools and diving pools and 1500 tonnes of recycled demolition material from the Olympic Park site is being laid daily to form the piling platforms for the pool foundations.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'We are on track to deliver an Aquatics Centre that forms a fantastic ‘gateway to the Games’ and in legacy new community and elite swimming and diving facilities that London currently lacks. This site has been one of the most challenging areas of the Olympic Park to prepare for construction. It was ready early and the Aquatics Centre build started two months ahead of schedule.

'Work is now well under way on the Aquatic Centre as the Big Build picks up steam across the Olympic Park. It won’t be long until people start to see more of the structures emerging that will form the world class venues for the London 2012 Games and legacy.'

In July this year construction started two months early on the Aquatics Centre. Piling is set to complete in Spring 2009. The roof construction begins later this year when structures will start to come out of the ground. The 160m long and 95m high steel roof frame will begin installation next year.

Aquatics Centre key facts:

The Zaha Hadid designed Aquatics Centre is located in the south of the Olympic Park and will be the main ‘Gateway into the Games’, hosting Swimming, Diving, Synchronised Swimming, Water Polo finals and the swimming discipline of the Modern Pentathlon.
The Aquatics Centre will have a capacity of 17,500 during the Games, reducing to a maximum of 2,500 in legacy, with the ability to add 1000 for major events, and provide two 50m swimming pools, a diving pool and dry diving area - facilities that London does not have at present.
Eleven industrial buildings have been demolished on the 55,000 square metre site.
Around 130,000 tonnes of soil have been dug out on of what was one of the more challenging and complex areas of the Olympic Park contaminated with pollutants including petrol, oil, tar, solvents and heavy metals such as arsenic and lead.
Four skeletons were discovered and removed from a prehistoric settlement discovered on the site of the Aquatic Centre.
140,000 tonnes of clean soil has been brought from other areas of the Olympic Park to prepare for construction to start.
Planning permission has been achieved and Balfour Beatty has been appointed to build the Aquatics Centre and huge land-bridge that forms the roof of the training pool and the main pedestrian access to the Olympic Park. Construction work will be complete in 2011 for test events ahead of the Games.
The sweeping roof, which is 160m long and 95m at its widest point, is an innovative 2800 tonne steel structure with a striking and robust aluminium covering.

Lee Pearson wins ninth Paralympic medal

admin — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 07:50:00 GMT

British Paralympian Lee Pearson won a ninth title today as the Equestrian competition came to a close in Hong Kong.

Finishing in first place in the (1b ind) Freestyle, Pearson has only been riding his horse, Gentleman, since January.

'I was more nervous for these three competitions than I have ever been for any competition in my life,' said Pearson.

'I rode my heart out and I don’t think Gentleman will ever know how much he has changed my life.'

Pearson and Gentleman topped the table with a stunning score of 77.06%, winning Pearson a third gold in as many Games.

In second place was Pearson's Paralympics GB teammate, 22 year old Ricky Balshaw on Deacons Giorgi.

The ParalympisGB Equestrian squad have won a total of 10 medals in 2008, more than in any other Paralympic Games.

On 17 September, the Paralympic Flag will be handed from the Mayor of Beijing to the Mayor of London. This final Handover Ceremony marks the start build up to the London 2012 Games and the beginning of the London 2012 Education Programme. This programme aims to create a once in a generation Games experience for children and young people, engaging them, inspiring them and helping them to fulfil their potential and create long-term benefits for themselves and their communities.

Olympic Park workforce reach new safety milestone

admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:50:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) today announced that the Olympic Park workforce have achieved another million hours without a reportable accident, for the fifth time since the ODA gained possession of the Park in July 2007.

There are over 2,600 workers on site, all of whom will be bought a free breakfast in the canteens across the site tomorrow morning as a thank-you for the achievement.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'To complete a million hours without a reportable accident on a project of this size and complexity is challenging enough, so to do this five times is a real accomplishment.

'The ODA and all our contractors are dedicated to setting the highest standards and providing the very best working conditions, however this achievement is really thanks to the professionalism of every individual worker on the site.

'This project will get more challenging as construction activity increases across the Park, but no-one on this project is complacent and the welfare of the workers will always come first.'

The progress on the Olympic Park to date includes:

192 buildings demolished
Over one million cubic metres of soil excavated to shape the Park
Two 6km underground tunnels and 200km of cabling complete to house the powerlines
Construction started on the Olympic Stadium three months early and the Aquatics Centre two months early
Construction is underway on the Olympic Village and utilities infrastructure.

Adidas get into the 2012 zone

admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:45:00 GMT

Adidas has committed £1million investment to get young Londoners participating in sport, launching five giant multi-sport outdoor venues called ‘adiZones’

As the Official Sportswear Partner of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, adidas has committed to adiZones in each of the Host Boroughs (Tower Hamlets, Greenwich, Hackney, Newham and Waltham Forest) - with Tower Hamlets opening today.

Forming part of adidas’s £100million investment in the Games, the adiZones will be free for the community to use and will incorporate basketball, football and tennis areas, a climbing wall, an outdoor gym and an open area to encourage dance, aerobics and gymnastics.

A team of adiZone Activators will engage local communities, schools and sports clubs. Local coaches will be encouraged to attend the sites where they will be able to spot talent and encourage them to join local clubs and sporting organisations.

Christine Ohuruogu, 400 metres Olympic Gold medallist in Beijing 2008, officially opened the new site at Tower Hamlets and commented: 'The adiZones are wonderful spaces where young people can meet up, hang out and get involved in sport. Growing up around here, I know that the adiZones will be a really welcome and needed addition to the local community.

Shortlist announced for London 2012 Canoe/Kayak Slalom venue contract

admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:20:00 GMT

The contractors shortlisted to construct a world-class White Water Canoe Centre for the London 2012 Games and leave major sporting and leisure attraction in legacy were announced by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) today.

The White Water Canoe Centre will be built in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire to host the Canoe/Kayak Slalom events during the Olympic Games. After the Games, the venue will be developed to become a sporting and leisure facility for canoeing and white-water rafting, as well as a major competition venue for elite events. The Centre will be owned and managed by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

The contract for the construction of the new venue and facilities was put out to tender in May and five companies have now been shortlisted:

Edmund Nuttall Limited
Fitzpatrick Contractors Limited
Carillion Construction Limited
Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering Limited
Morrison Construction Limited

David Higgins, ODA Chief Executive said: 'The new world-class facilities we are building at Broxbourne are an example of how hosting the 2012 Games will spread benefits around the country. Securing such a strong shortlist of leading contractors is an important step towards delivering first-class facilities for the world’s best athletes in 2012 and leaving the lasting legacy of a major leisure attraction for many years to come.'

The Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre will be built on what is currently the overflow car park for the Showground site of the River Lee Country Park, between Waltham Cross and Theobalds Grove stations. The contract for the construction of the new venue and facilities includes:

Land Formation – Placement and compaction of fill to form the course embankments and landscaped features of the venue.
Facility building and Pumping House – Construction of a new facility building, containing reception, café, changing rooms, admin offices, spectator viewing facilities, storage, and water pump/filtration plant.
Canoe Course Formation – Creation of an international standard slalom canoe course, warm-up course, and finish lake.
Landscaping Works – Landscaping works with path and bridge networks throughout the venue to facilitate spectator viewing and access.

Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said: 'The short listing of contractors represents an important milestone in the delivery of the White Water Canoe Centre. This fantastic venue will be handed to the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority in 2010/11 when it will become an integral part of the zone of sporting excellence which is being established in the Lee Valley Regional Park.'

Richard Ellis, chair of the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), said: 'EEDA and other partners, including the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and Sport England have worked closely together, and with the ODA, to specifically develop a real and lasting added-value legacy and ensure that the Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre is accessible, valued and enjoyed by people living, working and visiting the area well after the Games event has taken place.'

The construction contract is expected to be awarded in early 2009, with works starting in Spring 2009. The venue is due to be completed for Games training and testing in 2010-11. During the Games, temporary seating will be installed around the venue for spectators.

After the Games, the spectator seating will be removed, and the venue will be developed into the Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre, creating a major leisure attraction for canoeing and white water rafting as well as a venue for future international competition.

The Broxbourne canoe course will be located within a wider parkland setting designed by leading landscape architects Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates (MVVA), and the new facility building has been designed by architects FaulknerBrowns. Whitewater course specialists Whitewater Parks International, working with civil and structural engineers Cundall, are the designers of the whitewater courses.

The construction of the Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre includes funding from Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, the East of England Development Agency and Sport England.

Five firms shortlisted to build London 2012 Handball Arena with multi-sports legacy

admin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:31:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority today announced a five-strong shortlist of companies competing to build the London 2012 Handball Arena which will become a new multi-sports facility in legacy.

Following a packed industry day in April and an encouraging response to the opportunity when advertised, the following five companies have been shortlisted:

Barr Limited
Buckingham Group Limited.
Byrne Group PLC
Mansell Construction Services Limited
Verry Construction Limited

The Handball Arena will host handball and the modern pentathlete aspects of fencing and shooting during the Olympic Games as well as Goalball during the Paralympic Games. In legacy the Arena will become a multi-sports venue with the flexible seating capacity and facilities necessary to hold a wide range of indoor sports training and local to international competitions and events.

The Handball Arena design team, Make Architects with PTW and Ove Arup and Partners are currently progressing with design development before planning permission is submitted later this year. A construction contractor will be appointed by Spring next year ready for work to start on site in the summer.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'This is a quality shortlist for one of the last remaining opportunities to build a permanent Olympic Park venue. The Handball Arena is an important venue both for spectators and athletes during the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the local community and sports teams in legacy. After the Games the venue will cater for indoor sports ranging from Basketball and Handball to Badminton and Gymnastics boosting the sporting facilities provided across the Olympic Park.'

Jules Pipe, elected Mayor of Hackney, said: 'This new multi-sports arena is a major opportunity to develop a world class facility for Hackney residents as part of the legacy of the London 2012 Games. This will contribute to the Council’s continuing investment in sports and leisure facilities to offer all our residents access to healthier lifestyles. We are working with the Olympic Delivery Authority and partners to ensure the venue is developed with the long-term legacy as a priority.'

Recently the local community, sporting groups from across the host boroughs and the rest of London, young people and technical specialists have all provided input into the designs at a number of ODA consultation events ahead of the planning application being submitted.

Olympic hero Chris Hoy unveils latest plans for London 2012 VeloPark

admin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:18:00 GMT

Triple Beijing gold medal-winning Olympic hero Chris Hoy unveiled plans for new world-class cycling facilities in London for cyclists of all ages and abilities today as the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) released the latest designs for the London 2012 VeloPark.

The VeloPark, to be based in the north of the Olympic Park, will include a 6,000 seat Velodrome to host the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic indoor track cycling events as well as a BMX circuit for Olympic events. After the Games, a road cycle circuit and mountain bike course will be added to create a legacy VeloPark that will combine cycling facilities across all disciplines in one cycling ‘hub’. The VeloPark will be linked into cycle routes across London, connecting the whole of the capital with the new world-class cycling facilities.

Chris Hoy, together with Mayor of London Boris Johnson, LOCOG Chairman Seb Coe, ODA Chief Executive David Higgins and Lee Valley Regional Park Authority Chief Executive Shaun Dawson visited the Olympic Park site today to unveil the latest VeloPark plans. The designs include:

- A 6,000 seat Velodrome - to host the Olympic and Paralympic indoor track cycling events in 2012, and be used by elite athletes and the local community after the Games. The legacy Velodrome will include a café and other facilities and the venue design includes a 360 degree concourse level offering fantastic views over the Olympic Park, and out to the London skyline

- BMX circuit – to host Olympic events in 2012 and then be reconfigured for use by cyclists of all levels of ability after the Games

- Road cycle circuit – built after the Games, offering cyclists a one-mile circuit

- Mountain bike course – created after the Games, offering around a 6km course with a range of mountain bike trails for riders of various abilities

Chris Hoy, the first Briton in 100 years to win three gold medals at the same Olympic Games, said:

'Winning gold in Beijing was an unbelievable experience so it’s great to come to London to visit the site where I hope Team GB will win lots more gold medals in 2012. Becoming Olympic champion simply wouldn’t have been possible without the local cycling facilities I used when I was growing up so I’m delighted to help launch the designs of the London 2012 VeloPark which will provide first-class facilities for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

'I have been hugely impressed with the VeloPark designs which I’m sure will help deliver some world-class performances from athletes in 2012 and inspire a whole new generation of cycling champions for many years after the Games.'

David Higgins, Chief Executive of the ODA said:

'The tremendous success of British cyclists in Beijing underlines the importance of delivering a world-class stage for elite athletes in 2012, but we are planning for Games-time and legacy together and our VeloPark plans are also looking ahead to a new generation of cyclists.

'As the latest designs show, the VeloPark will be one of the biggest legacies of the 2012 Games, delivering world-class facilities for cyclists of all ages and abilities to use for years to come. The Velodrome is another striking piece of architecture for the Olympic Park and together with the wider cycling facilities to be built after the Games, this will be a landmark new venue for London.'

Sebastian Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee, said:

'The tremendous success of our cyclists was at the forefront of Team GB’s achievements in Beijing so I am delighted to unveil the plans for the venue where I hope our cyclists will continue to strike gold in 2012. Our VeloPark plans are driven by legacy and these facilities are not only for our record-breaking cyclists to use in 2012, but to bring a new generation of cyclists into the sport for years to come and develop the Chris Hoy, Rebecca Romero and Shanaze Reade of the future.'

Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said:

'Having just had a taste of outstanding sporting architecture at this year’s Olympic Games in Beijing, it is exciting to see the latest plans for our own VeloPark. The designs meet the challenging brief to provide not only a first-class Games time venue but also a springboard in legacy for future British Olympians and will make a valuable contribution to increasing sports participation from grassroots to elite level.'

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said:

'The VeloPark is going to be an outstanding iconic landmark that will be admired around the world and I can't wait to see the finished structure packed to the rafters cheering on Team GB cyclists as once again they go for gold in 2012. It will also provide an excellent legacy of facilities for every type of cyclist from across the south of England and be able to compete to stage major cycling competitions and events in the years to come.'

Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA) which will own and operate the VeloPark in legacy, said: 'When the Games are over the Velodrome will open to the public and the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority will start work to complete the VeloPark which will include a reconfigured BMX course, a new one mile road circuit and mountain bike trails.

'The Olympic VeloPark will attract cyclists from all disciplines and become a cycling hub for London and the region. It will be a place where schoolchildren, clubs, groups and elite riders can train, race or just simply cycle for fun. The LVRPA will operate the VeloPark in legacy which will be part of its commitment to a zone of sporting excellence which will stretch from the White Water Canoe and Slalom Course in Broxbourne down to the Thames.'

Jennie Price, Chief Executive of Sport England said: 'Sport England takes very seriously its key, lead role in developing Olympic legacy for the community. The VeloPark is the first of several important Sport England investments to help achieve our objective of creating sporting opportunities for every community.'

Peter King, Chief Executive of British Cycling said: 'British Cycling is pleased to see such high quality facilities being built for London 2012. The VeloPark will provide a first class facility both for the Games and to encourage community and competition participation in cycling - and of course it brings a much needed indoor velodrome to the region.

'British Cycling has worked closely with everyone involved to ensure the best possible solution was found for this site, in combination with the recently-opened centre at Redbridge. These are exactly the sort of facilities we need to allow the sport of cycling to grow and help to continue the recent success achieved by the GB Cycling Team in Beijing.'

Michael Humphreys chair of the Eastway Users Group said:

'We started before the Athens Games to secure a Velopark for our sport. A London 2012 bid document quoted my son Hugo saying he wanted to compete in London's Games and have somewhere to train for them too. Goals like that obliged the Games to improve sporting chances, especially for the young athletes whose facility is now part of this vast construction site. To see the relocation facility that's just opened in Redbridge, and when the Velopark plans we have agreed are opened after the Games, there will be more riders like Hugo coming through. That's going to be a real gain for all of London and for Great Britain's medal hopes - whoever's winning them for us in 2012 or later.'

The design team for the VeloPark is made up of Hopkins Architects, Expedition Engineering, BDSP and Grant Associates, who were appointed last year following a design competition judged by leading names from the world of architecture and design as well as Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy. The VeloPark designs unveiled today have been developed by the design team following extensive consultation with British Cycling and local cycling user groups.

Mike Taylor, a Director of Hopkins Architects said: 'We are delighted to unveil our design for the VeloPark at this very exciting time for British cycling following our team's outstanding success in Beijing. We hope the venue and facilities we are creating will generate even more excitement in 2012 and then continue to be an inspiration for future generations of cyclists.

'Our vision for the VeloPark has always been to create a place where both beginners and elite athletes will be equally at home. The form of the Velodrome has been designed to express the drama and elegance of the track geometry and we hope it will become one of the defining images of the Olympic Park not to mention a place where World Records will be broken. After 2012 it will continue to attract international competition and when all the outdoor circuits are complete the VeloPark will become an exciting hub for all forms of cycling in London.'

A planning application for the VeloPark will be submitted later this month with construction work due to start on site in early 2009. The contract to build the Velodrome was awarded to ISG in May this year. ISG has an impressive sporting pedigree and were also responsible for replacing the track at the Manchester Velodrome which led to the British team securing nine gold medals at the World Cycling Championships earlier this year.

Steve Trotter, ISG Managing Director, said:

'The design team has put together a spectacular plan for the Velodrome that will provide outstanding facilities for both elite cyclists and the local community long after 2012. It is hugely exciting to be involved in building a Velodrome of this scale and we hope the success of the British Cycling Team in Beijing can be repeated on the London 2012 track.'

The launch of the latest plans for the London 2012 VeloPark follows the opening of the Redbridge Cycling Centre last month. The state-of-the-art £4.5m centre was built by the London Development Agency (LDA) for community and competition use to replace the former Eastway Cycle Circuit which made way for the site of the London 2012 VeloPark. The Redbridge Cycle Circuit includes a 2km cycling circuit and off-road trail and after 2012 it will be joined by the Olympic Park VeloPark to offer Londoners two of the best cycling facilities in the country.

Spectacular opening to Beijing Paralympic Games

admin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:06:00 GMT

The Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games have launched with a spectacular Opening Ceremony.

In the three-hour show, 6,000 performers and 4,000 disabled athletes from 148 countries took part in front of 91,000 spectators.

London 2012 Organising Committee Chief Executive Paul Deighton said:

'China delivered a fantastic Opening Ceremony for the Paralympic Games. Eleven year old ballet student, Li Yue, who lost a leg four months ago in the Sichuan earthquake, held the stadium spellbound as she showed the world that despite her recent disability she has not given up on her dream to be a dancer.

'And the entire Stadium climbed the rope with Hou Bin as he lit the Torch - an awe inspiring performance.

'We are totally inspired and look forward to 11 days of sport, and, for us, 11 days of learning as we prepare for the next Summer Paralympic Games in London in 2012.'

Danny Crates to carry Opening Ceremony flag for ParalympicsGB

admin — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 11:36:00 GMT

ParalympicsGB today announced that London 2012 Ambassador Danny Crates will carry the flag for the Great Britain team at the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Paralympic Games today, Saturday 6th September.

The Paralympic, World and European champion for T46 800m will be defending the title he won in Athens four years ago and is part of a 36-strong athletics team competing for GB in Beijing.

Danny will be competing in his third Paralympic Games. He was a talented rugby player before losing his arm in a road accident in Australia in 1994 and was then talent spotted for athletics.

Chosen by his teammates, he said it was 'the greatest honour an athlete can have'
to be carrying the flag into the Bird's Nest Stadium.

He said: 'For me, it is something special. My career has been full of many, many highs, and some lows, as in any athlete’s career, but this is pretty much the pinnacle. This is the one I had no control over. This is the one that has to be given to you for what you’ve achieved in the sport.'

The Paralympic Games take place from 6 September to 17 September. Great Britain will be represented in 18 of the 20 sports by 206 athletes. The British team finished second in Athens, but expect tough opposition at this Games, especially from the hosts China.

Shortlist announced for 2012 rowing venue contract

admin — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 11:32:00 GMT

The contractors shortlisted to construct enhanced rowing and flatwater canoeing facilities for the London 2012 Games were announced by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA).

The Rowing and Flatwater Canoeing events during the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will take place at the Eton College Rowing Centre at Dorney Lake in Windsor, Berkshire. Set in a 450-acre parkland, the venue currently consists of a 2,200-metre, 8-lane rowing lake, warm-up lakes, and associated competition facilities.

The venue’s existing facilities will be enhanced to provide improved facilities for athlete warm-up and flatwater canoeing events during the 2012 Games. The contract for the construction of the enhanced facilities was put out to tender in May and five companies have now been shortlisted:

Morrison Construction Limited;
Carillion Construction Limited;
Edmund Nuttall Limited;
Norwest Holst Limited; and
Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering Limited.

David Higgins, ODA Chief Executive said: 'Eton Dorney is a first-class venue and the enhancements we are delivering will create the best possible facilities for the world’s best athletes to use in 2012. Securing a selection of leading contractors is an important step towards delivering these essential works.'

The contract to deliver the enhancement works at Dorney Lake include:

The installation of a new 50-metre span bridge over a widened entrance to the warm-up lake for two-way vehicular traffic and segregated pedestrian traffic
Construction of a cut-through between the competition rowing lake and the warm-up lakes, with a new bridge over the cut-through
The upgrade of the existing gravel/stone access road up to the competition venue to facilitate construction works.

The contract for the Eton Dorney enhancement works is expected to be awarded in early 2009, with works due to start on site later in 2009.

Cultural Olympiad kicks off with Open Weekend

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:55:00 GMT

On 26-28 September, over 500 events will take place around the UK - kicking off the four-year Cultural Olympiad.

The event, called Open Weekend, will offer the public the chance to go behind the scenes at over 160 cultural organisations.

The weekend is designed to give people a preview of the depth of talent and creativity that will take place over the coming years.

Inspired by the founder of the modern Olympic movement, Pierre de Coubertin’s idea of a marriage of sport and the arts, the Cultural Olympiad is designed to celebrate Olympic and Paralympic values in the cultural field.

The London 2012 Games are not just about sport. They will also celebrate cultures, people and languages – in London, the UK and around the world.

Our four-year Cultural Olympiad kicks off on September 26-28 with a huge range of inspirational programmes. Working closely with colleagues throughout the arts and heritage world, we will push cultural projects to their limits. And beyond

New opportunities are being created to inspire young people and encourage participation from communities across the UK and around the world.

The Cultural Olympiad divides into three sections:
1. Ceremonies - extraordinary live spectacles watched on television by one in three people around the world.

2. Major projects – A number of major cultural projects featured in the London 2012 bid, forming the backbone of the Cultural Olympiad.

3. Inspire mark projects – local and regional events featuring in our UK-wide celebration.

Jonathan Edwards appointed as Deputy Chair of Nations and Regions Group

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:50:00 GMT

Jonathan Edwards has been announced as Deputy Chair of the London 2012 Nations and Regions Group, to further enhance the profile and reach of the Group’s work.

Jonathan, the Triple Jump World Record holder and Olympic Gold Medallist, is also a member of the Board of Directors of the London 2012 Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and heads LOCOG’s Sports Advisory Group. Amongst other activities, he is a Trustee of the Newcastle United Football Foundation, a Director of the Newcastle Gateshead Initiative, and is a BBC commentator and presenter.

Supporting Charles Allen CBE, Chair of the Nations and Regions Group, Jonathan will undertake high-profile visits and speaking engagements in each of the nine English Regions as well as Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. He will also lead on another core part of the Group’s work – the briefings to Members of Parliament and the Devolved Adminstrations on the regional involvement, benefits and opportunities that the 2012 Games offer.

The London 2012 Nations and Regions Group is the organisation set up during the bidding phase to achieve maximum engagement in and benefit from the London 2012 Games across the UK. The group focuses its efforts on social, economic and sporting outcomes.

This year alone, the Nations and Regions Group has had significant input into and results derived from the launch and roll out of the London 2012 Business Network; the delivery of the London 2012 Pre-Games Training Camp Guide; assisting with the organisation and delivery of the UK Handover celebrations from Beijing to London in August.

The representatives on the Nations and Regions Group also play an integral part of realising the benefits in their areas of two forthcoming and enormous opportunities for their constituent areas – the four-year Cultural Olympiad and the London 2012 Education programme.

Jonathan outlined the vision for his role: 'It is an honour to take up this new position as we enter the four year run up to the 2012 Games. Helping to strengthen the profile and reach of the Nations and Regions Group at this time when the involvement opportunities step up a gear is a huge privilege as I am committed to playing my part in ensuring a UK wide legacy from the Games and inspiring young people to take up sport.'

'The Nations and Regions Group is the key to ensuring that people right across the nation are able get involved in the Games in whichever way they choose - whether this be through the business, employment, sporting, cultural and educational opportunities or nearer to the summer of 2012 as volunteers and spectators.'

Charles Allen welcomed Jonathan to the Nations and Regions team: 'Jonathan’s experience as a world-class athlete, sports ambassador, LOCOG Board Member together with his involvement in the voluntary sector means he is perfectly placed to assist with and respond to the Nations and Regions Group’s remit to drive the benefits of the London 2012 Games across the UK. I wish him every success in his new role.'

Already active in supporting the work of the Nations and Regions group, Jonathan begins work in this new role with immediate effect, with his first engagement tomorrow, Thursday 4 September, to formally launch the London 2012 Business Network to over 200 Scottish businesses at a special event at Hampden Park.

Olympic Stadium begins to rise out of the ground

admin — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:58:00 GMT

Progress on the London 2012 Olympic Park became clearly visible this week as new images reveal the columns of the Olympic Stadium emerging from the ground.

Over 100 columns, each five meters tall, have already been constructed and act as the support for the podium of the Stadium’s west and south stands. This also forms the lower ground floor of the west stand which houses the athletes' changing rooms, a 60 metre long call track and other back of house facilities such as doping control and treatment rooms.

The work to create the foundations for the Olympic Stadium is also nearing completion with over 3,500 of the 4,000 permanent piles already installed.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'As the eyes of the world turn from Beijing to London, they will see that real progress is being made to create the new venues and infrastructure for the 2012 Games.

'As these new images show, the Olympic Stadium is already beginning to rise out of the ground and over the coming months, we will begin to see the size and scale of this flagship venue. There is still a long way to go and we are not complacent about the challenges ahead, but we have made a strong start out of the blocks.'

In May this year, construction started on the Stadium site three months earlier than originally planned and was witnessed by Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Eight tower cranes, each between 48 and 60 meters high, have also now all been erected in the Stadium ‘bowl’ for the concrete work and steel and roof erection.

The work is also now underway on the abutments that support the first of the five pedestrian footbridges over waterways that surround the Stadium site. During the Games the bridge will be one of the main connections for spectators to and from the Stadium to the east of the Olympic Park.

A pre-cast concrete batching plant has been set up on the south part of the Olympic Stadium site to cast almost 200 rakers, the concrete structures that will support the seating units for the lower 25,000 permanent seats. The concrete will be supplied from the batching plant on the Olympic Park site which will reduce vehicle movements in the local area.

UK ready for Handover

admin — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:08:00 GMT

Millions of people around the UK will celebrate the moment the Olympic Games are officially handed over from Beijing to London, on Sunday 24 August.

The Handover will take place in Beijing with an eight-minute segment during the Closing Ceremony when the flag is passed from the Mayor of Beijing to the Mayor of London. David Beckham, Leona Lewis and Led Zeppelin guitarist will star in the show.

Around 40,000 people will gather on The Mall to watch it live and then enjoy the Visa London 2012 Party featuring top acts and special Olympic stars.

Giant screens in every nation and region in the UK will screen the Handover and the party, which will also be broadcast to millions on BBC One and Radio 2. The crowds will be encouraged to be in full voice with a special ‘Sing the Nation’ event.

In addition, special Handover Flags will be raised in over 400 local authorities to mark the moment.

Read more about Handover and find an event in your area

Work powers ahead on Olympic Park utilities infrastructure

admin — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 10:05:00 GMT

Huge progress is being made in constructing the new utilities infrastructure that will form the ‘backbone’ of the Olympic Park, the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) announced today.

Construction work is well underway on a new Primary Electrical Substation that will supply electricity to the 2.5sq km Olympic Park and the Stratford City development in Games time and in legacy. The electrical substation is being built by EDF Energy construction and piling works on the substation have now been completed with more than 200 piles driven up to 19 metres into the ground to form the foundations for the building. Work is now underway on the main structure of the building with construction due to be completed by summer 2009.

Work is also starting on site this week on the Energy Centre that will provide an efficient power, heating and cooling system across Olympic Park site for the Games and for the new buildings and communities that will develop after 2012. The contract to build, finance and operate the energy centre was awarded to Elyo, a subsidiary of SUEZ Energy Services, in July. The site of the energy centre has now been cleaned and cleared and Elyo are now on site, testing and surveying the site and installing a piling mat which will allow around 200 piles to be sunk up to 24 metres into the ground in the coming weeks to form the foundations of the building.

ODA Chairman, John Armitt, said: 'These utility networks and infrastructure will power the long-term development of the Olympic Park for many years to come so with construction work well underway, we are building for Games and legacy together from the very beginning.

'The Energy Centre and Electrical Substation will form the heart of the new utilities infrastructure and will be joined by the new utilities networks to form the backbone of the Olympic Park. The progress being made in constructing these essential works is a significant step forwards.'

The Electrical Substation and Energy Centre will be located in Kings Yard in the west of the Olympic Park and sustainability is at the heart of the design and construction plans. The energy centre will include biomass boilers using sustainable biomass fuels (woodchip) and gas to generate heat, and a Combined Cooling Heat and Power (CCHP) plant to capture the heat generated by electricity production. The site-wide heat network will be used to generate domestic hot water and to heat the Aquatics Centre swimming pools and other venues and buildings.

The construction of the electrical substation will reuse crushed materials from the demolition of the former Kings Yard buildings in the Olympic Park. The building has also been designed to include a ‘brown roof’ which involves crushed materials laid down on a flat roof which allow species to colonise naturally. The brown roof will help enhance the ecological value and biodiversity of the Olympic Park site by attracting local wildlife including black redstarts, a rare bird that thrives on brownfield land.

A clear emphasis has also been put on the architectural designs of the electrical substation and the energy centre to ensure that both structures fit in with the design of the wider Olympic Park.

The electrical substation has been designed by NORD Architecture, a Glasgow-based practice that won the prestigious Young Architect of the Year Award in 2006. The substation design is for a dark brick building which is intended to create a sense of solidity appropriate to the building’s role as a key part of the utilities infrastructure in the Olympic Park. The use of dark brick in the designs also reflects the traditional use of dark brick stock as window and corner details on the former Kings Yard industrial buildings on the site where the new substation will be built.

The energy centre has been designed by John McAslan & Partners. Part of the utilities infrastructure will be housed within an existing Edwardian building at Kings Yard in the west of the Olympic Park which will be retained and renovated. The Energy Centre design is sustainable and flexible to allow future technologies to be used within the centre as they are developed in years to come.

Red Arrows to top off London’s Olympic Handover celebrations

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:16:00 GMT

The skies over Buckingham Palace will be turned red, white and blue this Sunday as the Royal Air Force's Red Arrows perform a spectacular fly by as part of the UK-wide celebrations to mark the special handover moment when London becomes the official Summer Olympic Games Host City.

A crowd of 40,000 who are expected to gather in the Mall for the Visa London 2012 Party as well as millions more watching at home live on BBC1 or via the network of giant screens across the country will witness the unmistakable formation of the nine Red Arrow Hawk jets as they entertain crowds 1500ft above the ground racing as fast as 800 mph across the capital.

The Visa London 2012 Party hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Matt Baker will include performances by multi-million album selling artists including The Feeling, Il Divo, Katherine Jenkins, McFly, Will Young, James Morrison, Scouting for Girls, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Heather Small, and the cast of We Will Rock You. Olympians including Dame Mary Peters, Roger Black, Sally Gunnell, Jason Gardener, and Sharron Davies will also be in attendance.

This is not the first time the Red Arrows have been involved in celebrations around the Olympic Games; they also staged a fly past over Trafalgar Square when London won the Olympic bid in 2005. The acrobatic display team, the public face of the Royal Air Force, is renowned across the world for its spectacular displays. Since forming they have visited 53 countries and taken part in 4,000 shows.

Olympics Minister, Rt Hon Tessa Jowell MP commented: 'I am absolutely delighted that the Red Arrows will be part of the UK-wide celebrations to mark the moment when London becomes the official Summer Olympic Host City. It will be a truly historic moment and a fly past by the Red Arrows will round off what we hope will be a fantastic day on the Mall and an exciting weekend of celebrations across the whole country. We have always hoped that the Red Arrows will play a part in the London 2012 celebrations and what better way to start our four year journey to the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games than with one of their unique air displays.'

London 2012 Chair Sebastian Coe commented: 'In the same way the Red Arrows captured the mood of the nation when London won the Olympic bid on 6th July 2005, when they flew over Travalgar Square, I have no doubt they will do so once again on August 24th, a remarkable day in the UK’s history. It is about marking a moment in time, a moment when the eyes of the world will turn towards London when the Beijing Olympic Games close and the focus turns to the next Olympic Games Summer Host City. I hope the atmosphere on the Mall and across the entire UK will be electric – it is a very proud moment for us. We want people to be inspired and enthused by this unique occasion, and to share in the magic of the Games coming to London 2012.'
.
Red 1, Wing Commander Jas Hawker, commented: 'As the Commanding Officer of the Red Arrows I am extremely proud that the Team has been given the opportunity to fly over London as part of the Olympic Games Handover Ceremony.

'The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will truly be a memorable event for everybody in this country, showcasing the UK to millions of people all over the world. The Red Arrows represent both the excellence of the Royal Air Force and the best of British. It's a great honour to be involved and something that both myself and my fellow team members feel absolutely privileged to play a part in.'

Featuring unique collaborations and specially-arranged performances, some with a sporting theme, the show from the Mall will link up with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Closing Ceremony at which London Mayor Boris Johnson will be symbolically handed the Olympic Games flag, officially marking the start of London’s tenure as Summer Olympic Host City in front of a worldwide audience estimated to be around 1.5 billion.

The show is for ticket holders only and all the tickets have already been allocated. People all across the country will be able to watch the spectacular show via the UK’s largest-ever network of public giant screens, known as ‘Live Sreens’*. These sites will become the hub of activity for communities centred around the Handover moment – be it sport, music or dance and will include a mass sing-a-long as part of the 'Sing The Nation' programme.
The Beijing Games will be the first ever 24/7 Games. BBC Television will broadcast more than 2,750 hours of coverage, giving viewers access to live coverage, the latest news updates regardless of the time of day and where they are, through the BBC's extensive TV, radio, online, mobile and BBC iPlayer services.

Red Arrows

The Red Arrows promote the professional excellence of the Royal Air Force, assist in recruiting into the Royal Air Force, contribute to Defence Diplomacy, and support wider British interests through the promotion of British industry overseas.
Commanded by Wing Commander Jas Hawker, the Red Arrows consists of over 100 officers and airmen drawn from throughout the Royal Air Force. Officially formed on 1 March 1965, the Red Arrows are based at Royal Air Force Scampton in Lincolnshire.

All nine Red Arrows display pilots are fast jet pilots from front-line Royal Air Force squadrons. In 2008, the Team has pilots from all four front-line fast jet types; Jaguar GR3, Tornado GR4, Tornado F3 and Harrier GR9. To apply for selection to the Red Arrows, pilots must have amassed a minimum of 1,500 flying hours, one front-line tour and be assessed as above average in role.

Reds 1 to 5 form the front section known as ‘Enid’, and Reds 6 to 9 are known as ‘Gypo’. The Synchro Pair, Reds 6 and 7, perform the highly popular, dynamic manoeuvres during the second half of the display sequence. There is one other qualified Hawk pilot: Red 10, who flies a tenth Hawk aircraft to display venues ready for use in case one of the other nine becomes unserviceable. Red 10’s two primary roles on the ground at every display are acting as the Team’s Safety Officer, maintaining two-way radio contact with the Team Leader throughout the display and as Team Commentator.

Typically, more than 300 requests for Red Arrows’ displays are received annually but only about 75 can ever be fitted into the programme. The Team also complete many flypasts each year as they transit from display to display

London 2012 has always been keen to use the Red Arrows in their celebrations going forward, as they did when they won the bid on 6th July 2005.

New artists and hosts confirmed for Olympic Handover Celebrations, Visa Party

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:18:00 GMT

Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Heather Small and the cast of 'We Will Rock You' have been announced by London 2012 as the final line-up joining the performers at the Visa London 2012 Party on The Mall on Sunday 24 August, as part of the UK-wide Olympic Handover Celebrations.

Hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Matt Baker, Olympians including Dame Mary Peters, Roger Black, Sally Gunnell, Jason Gardener, and Sharron Davies will also attend to help mark the moment when London becomes the official Summer Olympic City.

On 24 August 40,000 people will gather in The Mall to watch performances from multi-million-selling artists including The Feeling, Il Divo, Katherine Jenkins, McFly, Will Young, James Morrison, Scouting for Girls, and now by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Heather Small, and the cast of We Will Rock You.

Featuring unique collaborations and specially arranged performances, some with a sporting theme, the show from the Mall will link up with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Closing Ceremony at which London Mayor Boris Johnson will be symbolically handed the Olympic flag, officially marking the start of London’s tenure as Summer Host City in front of a worldwide audience estimated to be around 1.5 billion.

Tickets have already been allocated via a ballot, which was oversubscribed, but the public will be able to watch the performances via the UK’s largest-ever network of public giant screens, known as ‘Live Sites’. The event will also be broadcast live to the rest of the nation on BBC One and BBC Radio 2.

London 2012 Organising Committee Chairman Sebastian Coe said: 'At approximately 2.30pm UK time, on the afternoon of 24 August the Olympic Flag will pass from the Mayor of Beijing to the Mayor of London in the Olympic Stadium in Beijing and the eyes of the world will turn to us. This will be a thrilling moment.'

Colin Grannell, Executive Vice-President, Partnership Marketing at Visa Europe, said: 'As a global supporter of the Olympic Games for more than two decades we at Visa are proud to sponsor an historic and memorable event for people to celebrate the return of the Games to London after sixty years.'

Sophie Ellis-Bextor said: 'It is such an honour to be performing at this event. This is such a big occasion and I am very excited about the Paralympic Olympic Games and Summer Olympic Games coming to London.'

Heather Small said: 'Helping to mark the moment when London becomes the official host city for the next Summer Olympic Games is very exciting, and I'm delighted to be a part of it.'

Sally Gunnell said: 'To see the Olympic Games come to London is a childhood dream, and I am very excited about the Olympic Handover Celebrations happening in The Mall.'

Jason Gardener said: 'I think the celebrations on Sunday 24 August will be fantastic, and a great way to announce to the world that London is hosting the next Summer Olympic Games.'

The Beijing Games will be the first ever 24/7 Olympic Games. BBC Television will broadcast more than 2,750 hours of coverage, giving viewers access to live coverage, the latest news updates regardless of the time of day and where they are, through the BBC's extensive TV, radio, online, mobile and BBC iPlayer services.

Screen breakdown

Live site permanent screens are located in Manchester, Rotherham, Bradford, Derby, Swindon, Liverpool, Birmingham, Hull, Leeds, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Norwich, Middlesbrough, Swansea, Cardiff, Bristol, Cumbria and Waltham Forest. This project is a unique collaboration between LOCOG, its partners in the project the Olympic Lottery Distributor, Lloyds TSB, BT, the cities and the BBC. Live site screens will be used during the Games and for Handover.

Additional screens will be erected for the 2008 Games in Canary Wharf (London) and Leicester.

Further screens will also be operating for the handover day in Belfast, Glasgow, Notting Hill, Weymouth, Hackney, Greenwich, Coventry, Kettering, Southend-on-Sea, Herne Bay, Tower Hamlets and Great Yarmouth and other areas funded by local authorities and organisations.

Sing the Nation

A festival to unite the UK in song this August: all kinds of people singing all kinds of music in all kinds of places. There will be singing in museums, libraries, parks abbeys and city centres. All events are participatory. Museum events range from Songs of London at the Museum of London to Sing Yorkshire in Rotherham.

Sing the Nation culminates on August 24th’Olympic Handover ceremonies when regions across the UK will hold mass city sings led by community choirs. From Glasgow to Cardiff, people across the UK will lift their voices. The result is expected to be the UK’s biggest singalong.

Each city will sing one regional song which connects to that location: Danny Boy in Ulster…I do like to be beside the seaside in Blackpool; Derby Ram in Derby…. Delila in Swansea… Maybe it’s Because I’m a Londoner in Walthamstow and Greenwich.

Cities taking part in the City sings include: Middlesbrough; Glasgow; Portsmouth; Manchester; Norwich; Hull; Bradford; Coventry; Derby; Birmingham; Swansea; London; Leicester; Blackpool.

Sing the Nation is delivered by Sing London, a not for profit company who delivered Sing London in 2007. Sing the Nation is supported by Paul Hamlyn Foundation, LOCOG and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Olympic Handover Flag

414 Local Authorities throughout the United Kingdom and the Channel Islands will be flying the Olympic Handover Flags to celebrate the moment when London becomes the next Summer Olympic Host City, on Sunday 24th August.

Olympic Handover Flags will be flown at MOD/Service locations in: Royal Artillery Barracks Woolwich, Mitcham Road Barracks in Croydon, School of Physical Training in Aldershot and Colchester Garrison.

Olympic Handover Flags will be flown at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Overseas Missions in : Abuja, Addis Abba, Ankara, Astana Bangkok , Banjul ,Berlin , Beijing, Boston ,Brasilia, Brussels , Bridgetown Canberra, Cape Town, Chicago , Colombo, Dakar, Dar Es Salaam, Doha, Dushanbe, Gabarone, Havana, Hanoi, Jakarta, Kabul, Kingston, Kolkata, Latvia, Lisbon, Lima, Lilongwe, Luxembourg, Luanda, Lusaka, Madrid, Montserrat, Mexico City, Montevideo, Munich, Muscat Nairobi, New Delhi, New York, Panama City, Port Moresby Quito, Reykjavik, Rio, Sao Paulo, Santiago, Seoul, Singapore, Shanghai, Stockholm, St Petersburg, Suva, Tokyo, Valleta, Vancouver, Victoria, Wellington, Yaounde, and Yerevan.

Olympic Handover Flags will be flown at the British Councils offices in: Bahrain, England, Ghana, India, Jordan, Japan, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Thailand, Taiwan and Venezuela.

Heroes parade for Beijing 2008 athletes

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:05:00 GMT

Team GB and ParalympicsGB athletes will be welcomed home with a heroes parade on Thursday 16 October.

The parade was announced today by Mayor of London Boris Johnson, alongside the British Olympic Association and the British Paralympic Association.

Further details will be announced in due course.

The Mayor said: 'Just over half way through the Beijing Games and Team GB has put in one of its best ever performances.

'In September our Paralympians will I hope return from Beijing having achieved similar success.

'So to reflect the excitment and pride of the country in our athletes’ superb victories we’ve set a date in the diary now when we can cheer all our heroes and honour their extraordinary feats at this summer's Games.'

London showcases Britain’s sporting credentials

admin — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 11:28:00 GMT

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) hosted a reception at the British Ambassador’s residence in Beijing yesterday to launch the London 2012 Pre-Games Training Camp Guide.

The event was hosted by Sebastian Coe, Chair of London 2012, British Olympic Association chairman Lord Moynihan, VisitBritain chief executive Tom Wright and Olympics Minister Rt Hon Tessa Jowell MP and was attended by representatives from over 100 National Olympic Committees from all over the world, as well as representatives from more than half of the International Sports Federations.

The Pre-Games Training Camp Guide contains over 600 sporting venues and facilities throughout the UK which met the standards required to host teams and athletes in the run up to the Games in 2012. Published online, the Guide outlines different venues from all over the country which are suitable training bases for each of the 26 Olympic sports in 2012 as teams prepare for the Games. Developed by LOCOG and VisitBritain, the website showcases the quality and variety of sport facilities in the UK capable of hosting elite athletes. National Olympic Committees choosing to base their athletes at one of these training camps will receive a financial award of up to £25,000 from LOCOG to assist with expenses.

London 2012 Chair Sebastian Coe said: 'We said that we wanted the London Games to be for athletes, and the facilities listed in this Guide will really help overseas athletes prepare well. It also provides a great opportunity for towns throughout the UK to get involved in our plans.

'The process we have been through shows a great spread of high quality facilities throughout the UK that can be used by elite level athletes. The new website will continue to be an asset to keep an up-to-date log of the elite facilities we have across the UK.'

Tessa Jowell, Olympics Minister, said: 'This was the UK united in its determination to make the most of the opportunities offered by hosting the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is about non-stop action to make 2012 Games for all the UK - taking the initiative in selling the high-class sports facilities available right across the country to foreign teams and international sports federations.'

Simon Clegg, Chef de Mission of Team GB, said: 'The BOA is delighted to have worked in cooperation with VisitBritain and LOCOG to host our fellow NOCs at tonight's event - to mark the launch of the Pre-Games Training Camp Guide. Pre-Games preparation camps are a critical factor in the success of Team GB and the facilities available throughout the UK will greatly assist our fellow NOCs a they prepare for the London Games.'

VisitBritain chief executive, Tom Wright says: 'Britain is a sporting nation: potential visitors rank us 5th out of 38 countries for excelling at sport. Our reputation has been earned in part by the popularity of our world-renowned events and venues at destinations in every nation and region.

'The Beijing Olympic Games is a wonderful opportunity for us to assist the nations and regions of Britain in gaining an insight into what they can expect in 2012. It is a chance for them to showcase their locations to decision makers from the world’s Olympic and sporting organisations, presenting first-hand a flavour of the character and assets of their destinations and the excellence of their sporting facilities so that we can win more tourism business for Britain.'

The event was also attended by representatives from Northern Ireland, Wales and the nine of the English regions of the UK - East of England, East Midlands, North East, North West, South East, South West, Yorkshire and London, many of whom are part of a delegation led by VisitBritain to promote Britain to a global audience as host nation of the 2012 Games.

VisitBritain showed the assembled guests a new film that promotes Britain’s sporting heritage and will be used to inspire consumers worldwide online at www.visitbritain.com and by the travel trade and media at events, conferences and exhibitions, and in presentations and seminars. It aims to tap into the 41 per cent of potential visitors to Britain who would be very likely to watch a football match if they were to visit and the one in three who watch another sport like tennis, rugby or horseracing. It showcases an exciting and inspiring, modern, 21st century destination with a strong sporting heritage and culture and aims to inspire people to want to visit Britain and ‘be a part of it’.

Flying the flag for London 2012

admin — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:47:00 GMT

On 24 August, more than 400 flags will be raised the length and breadth of the United Kingdom to mark the moment we become the next host of the Summer Games.

Flags will be raised at places including Local Government Buildings, Army Barracks, Whitehall Departments.

They will also fly at the points furthest north, south, east and west in the UK.

Outside the UK, the flag will be flown at overseas missions from Vancouver to Tokyo.

This activity will follow the moment when London Mayor Boris Johnson is symbolically handed the Olympic Flag, officially marking the start of London’s tenure as Summer Olympic Host City.

London 2012 Organising Committee Chair Sebastian Coe said: 'When the Mayor of London accepts the Olympic Flag on 24 August, the eyes of the world will turn to London and the UK as the next Summer Host City.

'It is a very important and exciting moment for us, and we want as many people as possible to join in the Handover celebrations. We are delighted that so many local authorities share our excitement and are proudly displaying the Handover Flag to mark this very special moment on our journey to 2012.'

Benefits from London 2012 transport improvements will be felt two years ahead of the Games

admin — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:10:00 GMT

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has published a document which shows that residents and commuters will benefit from major London 2012 transport projects as early as 2010.

The plans are outlined in 'pace', the second in a series of progress reports on 2012 transport planning, which explains how the ODA is investing £500m in infrastructure to develop and deliver transport facilities that are needed before, during and beyond the 2012 Games.

The ODA’s investment will leave the UK and London with a range of new transport assets, including new trains, platforms, lifts and bigger stations for commuters. There will also be wider benefits, such new transport hubs for deprived areas of London, an increase in the number of people using a wider range of public transport and encouraging more active lifestyles by promoting walking and cycling.

Work that will be finished well before the Games includes includes:

trebling capacity and improving accessibility at Stratford Regional station, with work finished by the end of 2010;
a three-car instead of two-car train service on the DLR to boost on-board capacity by 50 per cent on the majority of the network by 2010;
completion of the new DLR extension to Woolwich Arsenal in February next year; and
projects from the £10m to deliver new and improved walking and cycling routes.

The ODA’s investment will complement the extensive transport projects across London and the UK that are being taken forward by the ODA’s delivery partners. From the first phase of the Thameslink project and work to boost capacity on the Jubilee Line by 25 per cent, to improvements to the East London Line and a new western concourse at Kings Cross Station, this work will provide significant long-term benefits to commuters.

ODA Director of Transport Hugh Sumner said: 'The Games will be the catalyst for improved transport links, which are needed to support revitalised communities and future generations in London long after 2012. Stratford Regional Station, for example, currently has 37,000 daily commuters during the morning peak, and we predict that this will rise to 83,000 by 2016. Commuters will benefit from our capacity and accessibility enhancements to the station two years before the Games.

'Ranging from a new DLR station in Stratford to improved transport coordination across the UK, there is no doubt that the Games will deliver unprecedented transport improvements for London long after 2012.'

Peter Hendy, Commissioner for Transport for London said: 'We are getting on with delivering better public transport, cycling and walking facilities well before 2012.

'In the year ahead there are milestones in the upgrade of the Tube, the East London line and the DLR extensions to Woolwich Arsenal and Stratford International as well as for cycling and walking. Together this will increase the capacity, reliability and security of the network so that we are ready to host the 2012 Games and meet the future needs of London.'

Team GB celebrate first medals

admin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:21:00 GMT

Team GB has made a great start ot the Beijing Games winning two gold medals, one silver and a bronze.

Cyclist Nicole Cooke brought home the team's first medal of 2008 and Team GB’s 200th gold medal from the modern Olympic Games. Welsh competitor Cooke powered her way to victory in the Women's Road Race.

Nineteen-year-old Rebecca Adlington won gold in the 400 meteres freestyle event, seizing the lead in the final seconds to win it at the wall. Adlington shared the podium with team-mate Joanne Jackson who swam a perfectly-paced race to win bronze.

Rebecca said: 'We are both so happy to have two British girls on the podium. I don't think either of us expected it and especially a gold and a bronze, it's absolutely amazing.'

This morning canoeist David Florence claimed a silver for Team GB in the C1 single Slalom. He said: 'It’s been a long, long time coming and means everything to me.'

New Mountain Biking venue in Essex confirmed for the London 2012 Games

admin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:19:00 GMT

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) today confirmed that subject to final contract negotiations, the venue for the Mountain Biking events will be at Hadleigh Farm, Essex.

The alternative site was chosen following the decision in January 2008 to move the competition away from The Weald Country Park in Essex after a change in requirements for the sport that resulted in the need to identify a more technical and challenging course.

This venue change for the Games has been approved by the International Cycling Union (UCI), British Cycling (BC), the International Olympic Committee, and the British Olympic Association.

The new venue covers a 550 acre site situated close to the village of Hadleigh, near Benfleet in Essex. The site encompasses the outstandingly beautiful grassland and woodland of Hadleigh Farm, land owned by the Salvation Army, and the surrounding countryside of Hadleigh Castle Country Park.

There are two major hill areas, separated by a valley which will create the technical climbs for the course to challenge the competitors from around the world in less than four years time. The course will be set against the stunning backdrop of the 700-year-old ruins of Hadleigh Castle.

Sebastian Coe, Chair of LOCOG today said: 'It is testament to the hard work of everyone in involved that we have been able to confirm an alternative venue for the Mountain Biking competition only seven months after the venue change was announced.

'In Hadleigh Farm we have a world class venue for Games time with the potential for an excellent facility for elite and community use post Games.'

Pat McQuaid, President of UCI said: 'The UCI is delighted with Hadleigh Farm and believe it will be a spectacular Mountain Biking venue for London 2012. It has a wonderful terrain and offers a unique opportunity for spectators to view the majority of the course.

'Our technical experts believe it meets all the requirements of an Olympic Mountain Biking course with a range of elevations that will provide a challenging course for competitors.'

Peter King, CEO of British Cycling said: 'We are delighted that such a stunning alternative venue has been found to host Mountain Biking for the London 2012 Games. With an approximate journey time of 45 minutes to Hadleigh Farm from the Olympic Park, the proximity to the Olympic Village will be of immense value to the Mountain Biking competitors.

'The potential for retaining a Mountain Biking course at Hadleigh Farm is very exciting as the sport is becoming increasingly popular in the UK and we want to build participation through the undoubted surge in interest in the run up to and after the London 2012 Games.'

Cllr Stephen Castle, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Regeneration and the 2012 Games said: 'I am absolutely delighted Hadleigh Farm is the chosen venue for the Mountain Biking event of the London 2012 Games. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase Hadleigh and South Essex to the world, to provide a real legacy both for local people and the international mountain bike community and show everyone all Essex can offer for sport, business, tourism and sustainable regeneration.'

Major David Hinton, Secretary for Business Administration of The Salvation Army UK and the Republic of Ireland said: 'The Salvation Army is delighted to be working with Essex County Council to create the 2012 Games Mountain Biking venue at Hadleigh Farm.

'Beyond meeting the technical requirements for the event, we are committed to working in partnership with Essex County Council, the London 2012 Organising Committee and the local community to ensure not only a great event in 2012 but also long lasting benefits for the community and the county as a whole after the Games. We look forward to being part of this exciting initiative.'

Next steps for the London 2012 Organising Committee and Essex County Council include a four month period of detailed planning on the course layout and the temporary facilities required to host the event; securing contractual agreements between all parties; working with the local community on an engagement programme and the announcement in the autumn of the Cycling Competition Manager.

Beijing Games kick off in spectacular style

admin — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 13:01:00 GMT

The Beijing 2008 Olympic Games got off to a spectacular start with a stunning Opening Ceremony at the Bird's Nest stadium.

The ceremony included a unique mixture of new technology and performance on a massive scale.

London 2012 Organising Committee Chief Executive Paul Deighton attended the event and commented:

'Everyone expected an Opening Ceremony of epic proportion and China did not disappoint, including a most spectacular finale.

'We now look forward to 16 days of sport, and, for us, 16 days of learning as we prepare for the the next Summer Games in London.

He also wished the best of luck to Team GB.

London 2012 tribute to Steve Parry

admin — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 12:58:00 GMT

London 2012 has issued a tribute to the highly respected former Reuters Sports Editor and IOC and London 2012 press operations adviser.

It takes an event or occasion of some magnitude to prompt a pause of any kind in the press rooms of the world's leading media organisations on the eve of the Olympic Games, the world's biggest media operation. But that is what happened today in Beijing as word spread through the Main Press Centre of the untimely death of Steve Parry, the highly respected former Reuters Sports Editor and IOC and London 2012 press operations adviser.

Even as the world's largest media operation moved into top gear for Friday's blockbuster Olympic Opening Ceremony, news of Parry's death sent shock waves of disbelief and sadness across news desks and through senior management offices.

The sense of loss surrounding the death of the highly regarded sports news expert and editor was more poignant and sharply felt amongst his Olympic and press colleagues, coming just hours before the start of the Beijing Games, which were to mark Parry’s 40 year association with the Games.

The Games attract the best of the best – the best athletes as well as the best media who report on their performances. Parry was gold medal material, universally acclaimed here in Beijing by his peers for quality reporting of the Games, and more recently for his work with the IOC in helping to maximise Games-time operations for media.

As Reuters Sports Editor, Parry planned and coordinated coverage of many sporting events around the globe but nothing matched the challenge and excitement of the Olympic Games.

'For Steve, the Olympic Games was what it was all about. Sport and the Olympic Games were synonymous,' said Paul Radford, who succeeded Parry as Reuters Global Sports Editor.

A highly regarded member of the IOC’s Press Commission, Parry’s advice and counsel was widely sought after in Olympic circles, especially his understanding of the NASA–like complexities of Games-time press operations.

Parry helped London to win the bid for the 2012 Games, and it came as no surprise that the bid’s important technical file on Press Operations scored top marks from the IOC’s Evaluation Commission.

Parry was a highly valued consultant to the team of Communications Director, Jackie Brock-Doyle, providing expert advice on London’s press operations plan as well as the Games time experience for press and broadcast media.

Like Olympians he has reported on, Steve Parry set new standards for others to follow.

‘Steve is one of the Olympic greats. It is hard to imagine an Olympic Games without him,’ Brock-Doyle said.

‘He was involved with London 2012 from the early stages of the bid and played a major role in helping us bring the Games to London. His candid advice, expert knowledge and exceptional humour will be sorely missed by everyone connected to London 2012, and the wider Olympic family. We send our deepest sympathy to his family at this very sad time.’

Progress surges ahead on construction of Olympic Stadium

admin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:54:00 GMT

The construction of the Olympic Stadium is surging ahead with the start of the work on the concrete supports for the lower tiers of seating and the abutments for one of the main pedestrian access bridges, the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has today announced.

A pre-cast concrete batching plant has been set up on the south part of the Olympic Stadium site to cast almost 200 rakers, the concrete structures that will support the seating units for the lower 25,000 permanent seats. The concrete will be supplied from the batching plant on the Olympic Park site which will reduce vehicle movements in the local area.

The work is also now underway on the abutments that support the first of the five pedestrian footbridges over the waterways that surround the Stadium site. During the Games the bridge will be one of the main connections for spectators to and from the Stadium to the east of the Olympic Park.

Eight tower cranes, each between 48 and 60 metres high, have also now all been erected in the Stadium ‘bowl’, ready for the ramping up of the concrete and steel work. These are now the tallest visible landmark across the Olympic Park construction site at the present time.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'The Olympic Stadium site is now a hive of activity and over the coming months we will see the Stadium structure start to rise from the ground.

'This is a challenging project and we are not complacent about the challenges that lie ahead but we have made a strong start. Real progress is being made every day on the site.'

In May this year, construction started on the Stadium site three months earlier than originally planned and was witnessed by Prime Minister Gordon Brown who had an opportunity to meet workers on site.

The piling work to create the permanent foundation for the Olympic Stadium is expected to complete in September.