Olympic Stadium Construction Completed on Time & Under Budget

The final piece of turf was laid down yesterday, March 29, by London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe and International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission chairman Frank Fredericks at the Olympic Stadium, marking the completion of construction on the flagship venue.

With construction on the £537 million (US$836 million) venue having began just under three years ago in May 2008, the project has been completed on time and under budget to the delight of Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) chairman John Armitt.

240 UK businesses won contracts for the construction of the Stadium and over 5,250 people have worked on the project. The final surface of the running track will be laid later this year by London 2012 to ensure that it is protected during the programme of temporary overlay which includes work for Ceremonies which may need cranes in the field of play that could damage the track.

Coe stated: “The Olympic Stadium will be the beating heart of the new Olympic Park and it is testament to the fantastic work put in by Team Stadium and the Olympic Delivery Authority that construction is complete on time and within budget.

“However there is still much to do. We now come in and do some work in preparation of ceremonies, to dress the stadium to ensure it has a London 2012 feel throughout and of course, the final touch – to lay the track.”

Fredericks, who claimed four silver Olympic medals in his sprint career, said: “Athletes that have spent a lifetime training for their Olympic dream deserve to be able to achieve it in the best possible conditions.

“I believe that those competing here in 2012 will not be disappointed. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the construction of London’s Olympic stadium for producing a truly outstanding sporting arena.

“When filled with fans at Games time, I am certain that the atmosphere will drive many of the competitors to achieve new personal bests and create unique moments of Olympic history.”

Coe and Fredericks were joined in the Stadium by IOC Coordination Commission chairman Denis Oswald and IOC Executive Director Gilbert Felli, as well as ODA chairman John Armitt.

Armitt added: “The Olympic Stadium has been finished on time and under budget. To complete a complicated project such as this in less than three years is testament to the skill and professionalism of the UK construction industry.”

Oswald said: “What a fantastic stadium. As host of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, this arena will provide the first and last memories that many people will have of London ‘s Games and I have no doubt that it will provide the perfect stage.

“When the athletes see what has been created here, I am sure that they too will be inspired to reach new heights in their sport. Congratulations to all of those involved in creating this unique and spectacular theatre.”