The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) has submitted the planning permission for Greenwich Park to host the Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events and Olympic Modern Pentathlon Events in 2012.

Research conducted by LOCOG's market research partner, Nielsen, shows that nearly 85% of Greenwich residents support the park being used as a London 2012 venue, providing it is not closed for more than six weeks and is returned in the condition it was received.

Over the past 18 months, LOCOG has consulted widely with local people and stakeholders about plans to use the park during the Games, listening to and addressing concerns.

-- Advertisement --

The Royal Parks, English Heritage, Natural England and other statutory bodies and organisations were consulted to ensure the Park is returned to its original state.

Sebastian Coe, LOCOG Chair, said: "Greenwich Park is one of London’s treasures, and it will be a wonderful sporting venue for the world to enjoy in the summer of 2012.

"Leading international Equestrian competitors are looking forward to competing in this unique setting in the heart of the Olympic City of London, and there are unparalleled opportunities for local people of all ages to get involved, with many benefits for the community.

"We take our responsibilities seriously - we know the people of Greenwich love their beautiful park, and we have spent considerable time developing our plans to make sure we protect it. Our planning application shows the lengths we are going to in order to make sure we return the park to The Royal Parks and the local community in the condition in which we will gratefully receive it."

(CD/KMcA)