Stratford set to see major boost from World Athletic Championships

People seeking flats to rent in Stratford are set to see the area receive a major boost after it was announced that the 2017 World Athletics Championships will be held in London.

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) confirmed at a meeting in Monaco last week that London's bid to host the prestigious event has won out over a rival effort from Doha in Qatar, triumphing by a margin of 16 to 10.

It follows months of lobbying and promotional campaigns and will provide the capital with an ideal way of building on the legacy of the Olympic Games next year.

Welcoming the decision, Local London Assembly member John Biggs said this represents a "great victory" for the area, following previous failed attempts to host the championships in 2001, 2005 and 2015.

It will also provide a positive development for the future of the Olympic Stadium in Stratford, allaying fears the venue will become a "white elephant" once the 2012 Games are over.

Mr Biggs said: "With the world class facilities that we now have in Stratford I am sure that this will be just the start of a long association between East London and world class athletics.

"A stadium that will be used for major events as well as by the local community is something I have campaigned long and hard for."

Stratford's Olympic Stadium is set to host more than 200 events during the course of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, with the opening and closing ceremonies also due to take place there.

It is said to be the most sustainable venue of its kind, thanks to its use of lightweight materials, and will have a capacity of around 80,000.

After the Olympics are over, it will act as a centre for sports and athletic competitions of various different kinds - including the 2017 World Athletics Championships - as well as hosting cultural and community events for those living locally.

Posted by Ben Carter

Published 16th November, 2011

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