NOGOE Turns Up The Heat On Olympic Organisers
NOGOE have released a 36 page report which makes the case against using historic Greenwich Park as the venue for London 2012’s equestrian events. The detailed report sets out to describe the risks and practical difficulties, as they see it, of using the Royal Park for such an event.
The objections break down into four main points:
1 that it is potentially damaging for such an important site with its many ancient trees, archaeological remains and fragile ecology;
2 that not only will it be more expensive than alternative venues but it will leave no meaningful legacy from the very large financial and other economic costs incurred;
3 that the social and economic impact of closures of the Park and surrounding roads is out of all proportion;
4 that there are real doubts about the legality of some aspects of the proposals.
You can read the report for yourself on the NOGOE website.
This report follows hot on the heels that chamption eventer and 2012 medal hopeful, Zara Phillips, has also questioned the wisdom of Greenwich Park being an Olympic venue.
On a similar note, Darryl at the 853 blog has news of a public meeting on Wednesday 11th March to discuss issues surrounding the use of Greenwich Park for 2012.
UPDATE: Darryl’s write up of the meeting can be found here.
Daily Photo 09/03/09: Park Steps
Zara Phillips Questions Greenwich Park Olympic Venue
Zara Phillips has used an interview with The Times to question whether Greenwich Park is the right venue for London 2012’s equestrian events.
Phillips, who is the Queen’s eldest granddaughter and reigning Eventing World Champion, said that Windsor or Burghley would be better venues than Greenwich Park, with her main concern being the lack of equestrian legacy. She told the paper:
What is annoying is that they put something there and then take it all down afterwards… What’s the point of that?
Why don’t you do it to a space that can be used with a legacy, not Greenwich Park where people walk their dogs? I thought that was the whole point of bidding for the Games.
Phillips was awarded an MBE in 2007 for her services to equestrianism and is hoping to represent Team GB at London 2012 on her horse, Toytown.
Daily Photo 06/03/09: Inside Greenwich Foot Tunnel
Daily Photo 05/03/09: General Wolfe Statue
Heart of Greenwich Receives Kick Start
The Home and Community Agency and the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, have announced a cash injection into five affordable housing projects across London which have seen development stalled because of the economic climate. One of the five sites to receive additional funding is the Heart of Greenwich development in East Greenwich on the site of the old Greenwich District Hospital.
The Mayor, who chairs the HCA’s London Board sub-committee, said: “The money we are investing today is also a major shot in the arm for London’s development sector and the economy. As this rolls out thousands of construction sector jobs will be saved but more importantly the sector will emerge strong to build and grow London when the recovery comes.”.
Michael Jackson at the O2 Arena
The King of Pop, Michael jackson, has announced a series of dates at the O2 arena in North Greenwich.The news came in a press conference at the O2 where the man himself announced to onlooking fans that “this is it”, and indeed that will be the name of the concerts. Jackson says these will be his last London concerts ever so this is your chance to see the legend behind so many great hits.
He is signed up for a 10 day residency starting from the 8th July but there is speculation that this could be extended if the demand is there.
Michael Jackson last performed in the UK with a brief appearance at the World Music Awards in 2006.
To find out about tickets for these events, visit the Ticketmaster website.
Daily Photo 02/03/09: ORNC from Island Gardens
Council Tax Frozen for 09/10
Greenwich Council has announced a council tax freeze for 2009-2010, meaning a band D taxpayer will continue to pay £980.91 for local services this year.
Councillor Chris Roberts, Leader of Greenwich Council, said: “We are all looking to find ways through the current economic challenges, and I hope our commitment on freezing Council tax and other charges sends out a clear message that the Council is doing all it can to support residents.”
Londoners on the whole seem to have done well this year with average council tax rises of only 1.2%, which compares well with the rest of the country. The average Band D charge in London this year is £1,307.55.
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