The London Olympic Legacy: A Testament to Sporting Success and Venue Transformation
The London Olympic Legacy - Lee Valley VeloPark is located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, east London. The venue is home to a world-class velodrome, BMX track, mountain bike trails and road circuit.
The London Olympics held in 2012 were a monumental event that not only brought the world's attention to the United Kingdom but also left a legacy that continues to shape the country's sporting revolution. The strategic planning and investment made during the event have proven to be a resounding success, particularly in terms of the revitalisation and repurposing of the Olympic venues.
I write this blog with a sense of pride. Pro Event Solutions (PES) has been working with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) the outsourced provider of the key legacy venues including the Copper Box Arena and London Aquatics Centre; boasting a partnership for over 15 years. It is an honour to work closely with this leisure provider who pride themselves on core values and their commitment to their customers and employees alike.
GLL has proudly welcomed exceptional events to the Copper Box Arena such as Live Broadcasting of Sports Relief, Product Launch for the Sony PS4 Gran Turismo Sport Game and sell out sporting events such as England Netball all of which PES has provided event management and production. It has been a pleasure to be a part of and witness the incredible work which has made the Copper Box Arena a huge success for the local community and their visitors over the last decade.
This blog continues to explore the remarkable London Olympic legacy and the transformation of its venues, which have become iconic symbols of both sporting excellence and sustainable urban development.
Reimagining London: The Pre-Olympic Scenario
Before the 2012 Olympics, the east London boroughs were facing numerous challenges, including derelict industrial sites, underdeveloped infrastructure, and high unemployment rates. Hosting the Olympics presented an opportunity to transform this area into a vibrant and thriving part of the city, leaving behind a legacy that would benefit the local community for years to come.
Olympic Venues - A Showcase of Architectural Brilliance
London's Olympic Park was a canvas for architectural innovation, boasting some of the most striking and sustainable venues ever constructed for the Games. The centrepiece was the Olympic Stadium, which hosted athletics events and the spectacular opening and closing ceremonies. Its unique design allowed for easy conversion post-Olympics, ensuring its continued use for a variety of sporting and cultural events. Our partnership with GLL has allows us the opportunity to work closely with these venues since 2012.
The Aquatics Centre - A Haven for Swimmers and Divers
Designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the Aquatics Centre was an architectural marvel that captivated audiences during the Olympics. After the Games, the venue was transformed to reduce its seating capacity, making it a more accessible and community-oriented facility. Today, it serves as a hub for swimming and diving enthusiasts, offering world-class facilities for both recreational and competitive use. A venue that we are proud to be the preferred supplier.
Legacy for the Community - The Copper Box Arena
Originally used for handball and modern pentathlon during the Olympics, the Copper Box Arena underwent a remarkable transformation to become a versatile multi-sport venue. Now serving as a community sports centre, it hosts a wide range of activities, from basketball and netball to gymnastics and fitness classes. This successful transition has ensured that the Olympic legacy directly benefits the residents.
The Velodrome - A Cycling Mecca
The Velodrome, also known as the Lee Valley VeloPark, was hailed as one of the fastest cycling tracks globally during the Olympics. In its post-Olympic life, it has continued to be a magnet for cyclists of all abilities. With its multiple indoor and outdoor tracks, it accommodates professionals, enthusiasts, and beginners, nurturing the next generation of cycling talent.
Sustainability and Legacy - The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Perhaps one of the most significant achievements of the London Olympic legacy was the creation of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This expansive green space, dotted with iconic venues and public art installations, has become a sanctuary for Londoners seeking respite from the bustling city. Its emphasis on sustainability and conservation ensures that it remains a treasure for generations to come.
Finally, the London Olympic Legacy is a testament to meticulous planning, strategic investment, and a long-term vision for sustainable development. The success of the Olympic venues lies not only in their architectural brilliance but also in their ability to serve the community long after the Games concluded. The transformation of the Olympic Park and its venues has revitalised a once-neglected area of London, leaving behind a legacy of sporting excellence, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. As London continues to thrive, the 2012 Olympics will forever stand as a shining example of how mega-events can leave a positive and enduring impact on host cities and their inhabitants.