World-class firms sought to build London 2012 Handball Arena with multi-sports legacy

Over 150 businesses attended a packed ODA Industry Day on Tuesday to hear the ODA’s plans for the Handball Arena and details of how they can compete for the contract which was advertised today.

The Handball Arena will host Handball during the Olympic Games and 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 design team, Make Architects with PTW and Ove Arup and Partners are currently progressing with concept designs for the Handball arena.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'We are looking for a contractor to build a Handball Arena that enhances the experience for Handball and Goalball athletes during the London 2012 Games and leaves a lasting sporting and community legacy.

'The multi-sports legacy of the Handball Arena will cater for indoor sports ranging from Basketball and Handball to Badminton and Gymnastics boosting the sporting facilities provided in the legacy Olympic Park at the Velopark, Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Centre and Eton Manor complex.'

Hackney Council’s Corporate Director of Community Services, Kim Wright, 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. Hackney already has high quality 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, this multi-sports arena will remain as a venue for local people and visitors. The arena will be in a new neighbourhood at Hackney Wick offering affordable housing, jobs and surrounding cafes, shops and entertainment facilities. We are working with the Olympic Delivery Authority and partners to ensure the venue is developed with the long-term legacy as a priority.'

The ODA expects to appoint a design and build contractor for the Handball Arena in early 2009 ready for construction to start around the middle of next year.

Notes to editors:

1. Companies can find out more about the Handball Arena construction opportunity at www.london2012.com/business

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For further information please contact the Olympic Delivery Authority Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 700.

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