David Higgins is quitting the Olympic Delivery Authority to become Chief Executive of Network Rail.

He is to step down in February 2011 and Denis Hone will take over as the new Chief Executive.

John Armitt, Chairman of the ODA, said: "David has done an inspirational job at the ODA over the last five years. We have been tasked with delivering the biggest construction project in Europe on a highly contaminated site to the ultimate fixed deadline.

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"David set up the ODA from scratch and leaves it with the project on time, within budget and on the verge of completing the first major venues on the Olympic Park. He has done all this at the same time as helping achieve a first-class safety record and driving forward innovation in terms of sustainable construction.

"This is an exciting opportunity for David and I am sure he will do a brilliant job leading Network Rail over the years to come."

Mr Hone said: "This is a change of Chief Executive for the ODA but it does not mean a change of direction or focus. The challenge ahead of us is to continue to hit our milestones, bear down on costs and complete the venue construction at the same time as maintaining our excellent record on health and safety."

(CD/GK)