Stratford buildings could house media in Olympics

Kay Atwal, Chief Reporter Monday, February 20, 2012
8:00 AM

The BBC could shun the glamour of the Olympic Media Centre to broadcast their Games global coverage from the top floors of council tower blocks in Stratford.

Newham Council has applied for planning permission for the temporary use of the top five floors at Lund Point in Carpenters Road and floors 16, 17, 19, 21 and 22 (excluding several flats) at Dennison Point in Gibbins Road.

Both applications are for temporary change of use from residential use to media and broadcast venues in connection with the Olympics. They include using the roof area for the construction of temporary studios at roof level from May 1 to September 30.

A Newham Council spokesperson said: “Newham Council is committed to redeveloping the Carpenters Neighbourhood to ensure the delivery of a high quality, residential and educational community for the benefit of existing residents and the rest of the borough. Because of this, a rehousing programme started in 2010, to look at moving residents living there to suitable alternative accommodation of their choice. The council has worked closely with the Carpenters Tenant Management Organisation who are responsible for the estate to ensure residents have been kept informed and involved with any decisions which have been made regarding the building.

“The council is talks with various media outlets on an array of properties. Because these are commercial negotiations it would not be appropriate discuss the details. Commercial arrangements are focused to bring the best value for the council by maximising revenue via the Olympics programme. This revenue will be reinvested in the Mayor’s Legacy Fund to provide services for young people and other residents.”