The 29,000sq m Main Press Centre (MPC) is on track to be finished in summer 2011, with its concrete structure complete and windows already in place on three sides.

Olympic Delivery Authority Chairman John Armitt said: "The Main Press Centre will provide ample space and quality provision for regional, national and international journalists and staff. Work is gathering pace as we enter our busiest construction phase.

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"This is the first time press and broadcasters will be based in the same area and marks a significant effort to make the best use of space within the Olympic Park. The buildings are designed to be converted into business facilities after the Games to serve the community for years to come."

The International Broadcast Centre/Main Press Centre will be a 24-hour media hub for around 20,000 broadcasters, photographers and journalists.

A catering village will serve around 50,000 meals every 24 hours and a 200m high street will have a hairdressing salon, post office, general store and bank. There will also be a temporary Main Press Conference room between the IBC and MPC that will hold up to 700 journalists at a time.

(CD/GK)