Aquatics Centre roof construction

Hi I'm John, Project Sponsor for the Aquatics Centre. We're here to look at the progress being made on the construction of the wave-like roof to the Aquatics Centre, one of the most complex engineering challenges on the Park. Lets take a look at how this process is being taken forward.

The wave-shape legacy roof weights 2,800 tonnes and has been designed by Zaha Hadid. It's actually supported only in three locations. The total span is 160 metres in length with a clear span of 120 metres. During construction the roof is supported by temporary trestles. These trestles will be removed on completion of the final elements of the steel work. The roof will be raised slightly to allow the trestles to be removed and then it will be lowered into its final position.

Clearly the Aquatics Centre is being constructed here in London, but it's been a real nationwide effort to ensure the steel arrives here safely from Newcastle originally via South Wales where the steel is being fabricated and transported to site, some sections in its entirety, some other sections being assembled here in a designated loading area on the site.

The Aquatics Centre in Games represents the gateway to the Olympic Park. In legacy it's the most iconic building, and will provide facilities for elite athletes and also the local community. This process will continue through to the end of the summer at which point we will be able to re-excavate the pool tanks and develop the pool surrounds. So I look forward to updating you again later in the year.