London Development Agency's new 'eco friendly' business park is one of the benefits that the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games have already brought to Beckton.

The Minister for Competitiveness Stephen Timms inspected a host of energy efficient measures and renewable technologies at the 27 unit Gemini Business Park that will lead to an estimated 13 per cent drop in carbon emissions.

The former disused gas works site was decontaminated and brought back into use by the LDA so businesses could relocate from the Olympic Park. His visit took in new residents Capital (print works) and the Royal Opera House's scenery making studio.

Mr Timms said: "I was very impresses with what I saw at Gemini Business Park. The 2012 Olympics in Stratford will change Newham for the better - and Gemini is bringing us early benefits. Excellent environmental credentials make it an attractive base for innovative companies. As a result, Gemini is already bringing new jobs and vitality to the area."

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Manny Lewis, Chief Executive of the London Development Agency (LDA), said: "Gemini is just one example of how the LDA is delivering London an Olympic legacy now. This former heavily polluted, ex-gasworks site is now setting the trend for eco design and bringing thriving businesses and employee spending power to a largely ignored area.

"Business from the Olympic site are already settled because we planned the park when the 2012 bid was first made. With over 650 employment opportunities we want this park to be a hub for business in this part of London."

The main environmental highlights installed in the building works at the Gemini Business Park include photo voltaic, solar panels and ground source heat pumps; Brise Soleil solar shades; water efficient appliances and an automated intelligent cooling system linking passive ventilation.

The 470,000 sq ft Park provides high quality office, industrial and warehouse space with units ranging in size from 5,000 to 110,000 sq ft.

It is one of three business parks developed by the LDA to house businesses moving from the Olympic site. The other two are in Leyton and Enfield.

(JM)