ODA approves revolutionary Water Polo Arena in London 2012 Olympic Park
The London 2012 Water Polo competition will take place in revolutionary 5,000-seater arena in the Olympic Park after plans were approved this week.
The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) Planning Committee passed David Morley Architects’ design for the temporary venue which will feature a distinctive sloping inflatable roof, made of recycled PVC cushions.
The arena – which will be dissembled after the Games and re-located elsewhere – will sit adjacent to the Aquatics Centre at the pedestrian entrance to the Park with construction expected to start in Spring 2011.
London 2012 Organising Committee Chairman Sebastian Coe said:
“Bringing Water Polo into the Olympic Park and locating it right next to the Aquatics Centre will be a huge boost to the profile of the sport. The men’s Water Polo final will be the last event of the Aquatics programme and the Arena will host a thrilling finale.”
ODA Water Polo Arena factfile:
- The sloping roof is made from air-inflated recycled phthalate-free PVC cushions which provide extra insulation and reduce condensation.
- The venue is wrapped in a distinctive silver membrane with translucent shard-shaped panels and its asymmetric shape gives the best sightlines for viewing Water Polo.
- Contains a competition pool (37mx23mx2m deep) and a slightly smaller warm-up pool.
- Provides step-free access without the need for lifts.
- Reduces water use by 40 per cent through low flow taps and showers and waterless urinals.
- Has been designed to be taken down, relocated and reused after the Games in full or in parts. This includes incorporating materials available through the rental market to ensure reuse and reduce construction waste.
- Contractors and suppliers will be appointed to deliver the venue through the existing ODA managed package frameworks set up to efficiently deliver a range of temporary and smaller permanent venues.
- After the Games the riverside site to the north of the Aquatics Centre will be developed by the Olympic Park Legacy Company.
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