(R86) Mayor of London Press Release

Wednesday 19th November 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - GLA/2003/487

Speaking today to London Assembly members Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London confirmed that a financial package has been put together that would allow for the restoration of the athletics stadium in time for next summer's athletics Grand Prix, and provide a new sports centre. The Mayor and his economic body the London Development Agency have supported discussions between all the stakeholders on the sports complex's future.

The Mayor said:

"Government and Sport England have worked extremely hard with us to put together a package to secure the long-term future of the sports facilities at Crystal Palace. Sport England has offered £1.5 million, available immediately, for the works needed to bring the outdoor athletics stadium up to scratch for hosting top flight international athletics meets, provided that they can start work in January in time for next year's event.

"Sport England and the Government have also given the strongest assurances they legally can that they would be prepared to provide £10 million towards a new indoor sports centre, have encouraged Bromley to apply for up to £5 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund which supports the refurbishment and regeneration of historic parks such as Crystal Palace.

"I have also asked the LDA to see if they can provide any money - perhaps up to £2 million - towards regeneration in the area.

"Together, the package of up to £18.5 million that has been put together is a generous one, and if Bromley agrees to provide £5 million from its more than £40 million reserves, together from what can also be leveraged in from the private sector, London will continue to host international athletics over the course of our Olympic bid, and the people of this part of South London will get new sports facilities of the high standard they deserve.

"I will meet with Bromley and Keith Hill next week to discuss the proposals further. The future for Crystal Palace looks a lot brighter now than it has done for many years."

LINK to Mayor of London's website.

19/11/03/03 Last updated 19/11/03