A planned bid for London to host the 2009 World Championships includes a new state-of-the-art swimming arena that could also be one of the centrepieces of London’s bid to host the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, reports the Times.
The aquatics centre will have two 50-metre pools built on top of each other, and an underground Olympic-size swimming pool, which would be a permanent legacy for London. At ground level a structure built on steel stilts would host a temporary racing pool and seating for a record 20,000 for the 2012 Games.
The facility would later be converted to a football stadium or concert hall. Bid leader Barbara Cassani has pledged that London would not be left with any “white elephants” following the 2012 Games.
Work on the permanent pool should begin as early as June 2005, a month before London learns whether it will host the 2012 Games.
Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that London would provide the first permanent new venues for the Paralympic Games, should it win the 2012 bid.
The Olympic Park tennis complex would provide a lasting legacy for sport for people with disabilities.
According to the London 2012 Web site, several programs are underway to help ensure a smooth-running and successful event, raising awareness and understanding of Paralympic sport and people with disabilities. Among the keys issues is transport.
Six thousand athletes from about 150 countries will compete in 18 sports in the 2012 Summer Paralympic Games.
